This one is very special, in several ways. No visible serial number (not surprising). No makers marks visible to either the auction house or to us once we got it here. This is the finest version of these single shot German(ic) rifles I have had the pleasure of holding. Both the detail and the mechanism are outstanding for the age.
German engineering at it's .... well, beautiful, functional ... and nothing we are really use to - either seeing or using. But they are spectacular in both craftsmanship and ingenuity.
Walnut stock, 25" fluted octagonal barrel with an 8" functional portion and chamber at the muzzle. Rust blue finish, relief engraved with oak leaves surrounding shooter and target scenes on the sided of the color case hardened receiver. No front sight with a vacant dovetail and missing tang sight. Stylized trigger guard with a double set triggers, and lever action on the underside of the barrel.
Manufactured around the late 19th century. Rifle is fine overall condition, with metal surfaces drifting towards brown patina. Receiver, trigger guard and tang display toning and muted color case hardening. 12.75 LOP to the front trigger. Action functions smoothly. Bore is fair with moderate erosion and wear. Displays visible rifling
These guns were made for shooting indoors - possibly originally to keep the furry population down before the invention of glue traps etc. They also help indoor competitions. Calibers were small - from 4 mm to the newer 22's. They are single shot with very heavy barrels. Most were custom made for a specific shooter and his/her arm length, hand size, shoulder measurement, etc. WHILE I STRONGLY URGE YOU NOT TO FIRE THIS WITHOUT FIRST HAVING A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH INSPECT AND APPROVE -I am not that - This one comes with a quantity of 4mm balls and Flobert cartridges in the wooden ammo and tool box, with cleaning brushes, diopter sights in various versions -the whole thing!
The load and lock mechanism is far more complex than on others I have had or seen. It functions as intended.
This is the fanciest I have been able to get my hands on. I've seen some Schutzen guns, depending on intricacy, artistry and age go for north of $20K. This one ranks right up there! They are not easy to come by!
