Percussion Target Rifle by Morgan James of Utica, NY

.40 caliber. 30" octagonal barrel turned for a bullet starter at the muzzle. NSN. Browned finish, one-third length metal forend, brass furniture, hardwood stock with crescent butt. Single shot muzzleloading percussion target rifle. Unmarked back action percussion lock, left angled flat of breech marked M. JAMES/UTICA, N.Y. Barrel measures 1" across the flats at the muzzle. Rifle is equipped with a dovetailed notch rear sight, dovetailed blade front sight, tang with hole for peep sight that is not present. Brass furniture includes a finger rest scroll triggerguard, crescent buttplate and plain toe plate. An old wooden ramrod is secured by two plain iron thimbles.

Morgan James (1815-1878) was one of the most talented and celebrated gun makers in New York state during mid-19th century. It is believed that he learned the gun trade from Utica gunmaker Riley Rogers and upon the completion of his apprenticeship relocated to Lictchfield, CT where he worked circa 1836-1840. He then returned to Utica and set up his shop at 11 Bleeker Street. He worked in partnership with George Ferris during the early 1850s and in addition to making some of the highest quality and accurate target rifles of the time, he was also involved with the design, application and use of early telescopic sights. It is believed that Morgan James' "legendary" temper put an end to this partnership. James was apparently also a chronic alcoholic, which led to financial issues. Circa 1870 James relocated to Ilion, NY where he went to work for Remington until his death in 1878. {ANTIQUE}

This lot is located in Cincinnati.

Good. Bore very good, mostly bright with some oxidation and fine 6-groove gain-twist style rifling with the lands about twice the width of the grooves. Barrel with some minute traces of old brown in the nooks and crannies and showing scattered surface oxidation and discoloration, along with some lightly scattered pitting. Markings remain clear. Lock needs mechanical attention and will not hold cock. Wood with repairs between the tang and the lock. Otherwise the stock shows scattered bumps, dings and mars.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Arms, Armor and Militaria Online

Percussion Target Rifle by Morgan James of Utica, NY

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup