Other than the cartouche strikes opposite the lock the rifle looks to be in almost new condition. Edges are sharp. bluing almost 100%, bore perfect, only the smallest minor dings. colors on the lock are faded, but other than that, the rifle is almost new. Cartouches however are light, almost not there. I've seen examples where the wood was heavily sanded with better cartouches! Light strikes from the factory? (Please don't ask, the rifle is not for sale at this time)
Opinions? You're looking, but not saying anything.
I believe at some time since 1863 it was carefully sanded and nicely refinished and even received a few coats of rust blue. The tell is the wear on the lockplate, not many folks can redo color casehardening at home. Steaming out dents of course would have also raised the cartouches. I've seen enough of these originals to believe that it wouldn't have left the factory with undiscernible cartouches like this. Nice rifle, nonetheless, especially if it has a nice bore.
Last edited by ead; 1 Week Ago at 04:53 PM.
Thanks, the bore is perfect and shiny. I've seen a few with obvious sanded stocks and nice cartouches.
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