Single Shot Percussion Smoothbore Plains Rifle By Sunger & Benedict Utica, New York Circa 1850

34 single wedge fastened heavy octagonal barrel 54 caliber. The lock engraved with flourishes and stamped “Sunger & Benedict Utica”. Plain hammer with a star design at screw. Plain utilitarian brass furniture with an elegant and attractive brass patchbox.

Curly maple half-stock with pronounced “tiger” striping and cheekpiece and pewter nose cap. Condition of barrel is good clean steel under an ancient coat of varnish. Two old sight dovetails have been period filled and a more recent sight installed missing elevator. Lock is crisp with good stamping and action works well with both half and full cock. Patchbox spring works really well and lid opens then springs closed. Stock has been lightly cleaned but is good. Two cracks right side forward of lock, one 7 inches but missing no wood. Ramrod is possibly the original with worm on end.

A desirable genuine plains rifle that will please the collector of Western expansion weapons.