Author Topic: Was this a Model 1854 Austrian Lorenz? **PIC HEAVY**  (Read 3267 times)

jjjxlr8

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Was this a Model 1854 Austrian Lorenz? **PIC HEAVY**
« on: October 24, 2009, 07:41:00 AM »
Is there a way to tell when it was made?















Offline TPH

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Re: Was this a Model 1854 Austrian Lorenz? **PIC HEAVY**
« Reply #1 on: October 24, 2009, 10:24:55 PM »
I posted the answer to your questions earlier and apparently did not hit the "Post" button, sorry. Yes, you do appear to have an Austro-Hungarian M1854 Rifle Musket, more popularly known as "the Lorenz".

Are there any markings that we have not seen, especially on the barrel (look top and bottom, they were not consistent in their placement). I am a little confused, the lock is dated 1852, they usually date 1854 and later. And no, the "1" is not missing, they only used the last three digits in the date.

The barrel appears to be at or near the original length, at least the original helical front sight/bayonet lug is in the right place. What is it's actual length measuring from muzzle to the end of the breach? If it is the original length - 37.25 inches long - it will be useable in the restoration of one that has a good stock but a shortened barrel.

Sadly, the stock is pretty well destroyed, the comb has been cut down, the buttplate was removed  and the forearm was shortened ridiculously. The old farmer who had it shortened post War wanted it done for some reason and I hope he was happy with the results.

Also missing are the middle and front barrel bands and their springs.  The rear band appears to have been cut and reworked so is useless in restoration as well.

The ramrod (very hard to find) is, of course missing.

The triggerguard and side plate and lock could be used in restoring another gun that was missing any of those parts.

The value of the gun is probably $100 - $150 (or more but maybe less), depending on who wants what parts to use on other guns.
« Last Edit: October 24, 2009, 10:28:00 PM by TPH »
T.P. Hern

jjjxlr8

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Re: Was this a Model 1854 Austrian Lorenz? **PIC HEAVY**
« Reply #2 on: October 24, 2009, 10:43:31 PM »
Thank you very much for the information! 

I didn't measure the length, but there were no obvious signs that the barrel had been shortened.  These are not my rifles so I don't easy access to them to take measurements.  I am just trying to find out some information on them for a relative who wants to sell them.