J.J. Henry ???

[nord]

I have been trying to ID a swivel breech percussion rifle I recently
purchased. I was told it could be a J. J. Henry, out of his
Philadelphia shop, by a knowledgeable Kentucky Rifle collector, and
that it wasn't, by another expert. So, I am still in the dark. It
measures 52" from tip to end of barrel, and if I measured it
correctly, the barrels measure 36.75". The patch box has a hidden
hinge. The only marking on it is the A. W. Spies lock. I know Spies
didn't build rifles, and normally didn't allow those who produced the
guns for him to put their name on it. One barrel is rifled, the
other smooth bore. It appears in untouched condition. I have taken
some photos, but wasn't able to get a good full length shot, but did
get decent ones of the barrel mechanism. The area between the barrels
is brass, but it is very tarnished so it is hard to see in the
photos. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Regards, Joanne







 

[smshea]

Patch box sure looks like it came out of the Henry shop! Whats Tim Lubeneski's take on this rifle?

[Joanne]

Scott,   One of the Kentucky Rifle experts who saw the swivel breech  "in person", thought it was a Henry because of the pineapple motif on the patchbox, and the hidden hinge...but I haven't seen enough Henry rifles to know one way or the other.   I don't doubt the gentleman's knowledge, but was hoping to find someone on the forum  who might just have something similar, something I can feel comfortable in saying that it mine  was attributed to J. J. Henry.    I don't know Mr. Lubansky or if he  has seen the post, but hopefully he will, and give his opinion.  Thanks again.....  Joanne