Percussion Pennsylvania Long Rifle, ca. 1860

Description

Made by R. & W.C. Biddle of Philadelphia (1855-1861), this rifle features unmarked 45 3/4” octagonal to round barrel of approximately .60 caliber with inlaid brass rear notch sight and front blade sight. Percussion lock with flat lockplate, engraved with scrolling foliage, a hound, double line border, and the name “R. & W.C. BIDDLE & CO./PHILADELPHIA”; hammer engraved ensuite. Lovely tiger striped maple full stock with brass mounts, including trigger guard, butt cap, fore end cap, crescent-shaped side plate, and three ramrod thimbles: wood ramrod. Barrel with dark patina, pitting at the breech, and only traces of rifling remaining; lock with light pitting and wear; stock very good plus, with beautiful dark patina. Overall length 60 1/2” (153.7 cm). Light weight and well-balanced, such pieces were highly accurate and often used by snipers during the Civil War. Beautiful piece to display over the fireplace.