LOT #72306 |
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Scoped Heavy Barrel Sharpshooter's Rifle By Horace Fox, Hydetown, Pennsylvania, with the Original Form Fitted Wooden Case. ... (Total: 2 Items)
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Description
Scoped Heavy Barrel Sharpshooter's Rifle By Horace Fox, Hydetown, Pennsylvania, with the Original Form Fitted Wooden Case. Although Fox operated in and around this location prior to 1855 it is interesting to note that a heavy barrel rifle, signed "H. Fox Foxburgh, Pa." (same period) was found after the Battle of Gettysburg, and is believed to have been used by a member of Berdan's Sharpshooters. This rifle was originally part of the famed Rosensteel Collection and displayed at the Gettysburg Visitor's Center. Although best known for their effective and lethal use of Sharp's rifles, Berdan's, as well as other Civil War sharpshooter units, continued to use these highly accurate, heavy barreled, rifles for long range shots throughout the course of the war. The extremely heavy barrel, and sophisticated scope, of this example clearly indicates it was designed to engage targets at very long range.The rifle is 51¾" overall, the barrel is 34" including the false muzzle, and is a remarkable 2" across the flats, approximately .45 caliber. The back action, side hammer, 'mule ear' lock, the breech, breech tang, trigger guard and butt plate all exhibit engraved decoration. All fitting are iron. The nicely figured walnut stock is about mint, retaining most of the original varnish. Fitted with iron pipes under the barrel for a wooden ramrod, which is now missing. The 34" iron tube scope is ¾" in diameter and fitted with optics producing rather strong magnification. The scope is adjustable for both elevation and windage. Signed on the left side of the barrel "Horace Fox/ Hydetown/ Pa." and "Cast Steel". The rifle is in superb untouched condition. All metal w/smooth dark patina, absolutely no rust or pitting. Mechanically perfect, mint bore. The original period wooden storage/carrying case is custom made for this gun with specific cutouts for the scope, trigger guard etc., and retains most of the original old black painted finish. Rifles such as this were deadly in the hands of trained sharpshooters on both sides throughout the war, especially in the trenches at Petersburg. A really incredible American rifle that could very well have seen Civil War service. Most impressive.
Auction Info
2008 June Signature Civil War Auction #6002 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
June, 2008
29th-30th
Sunday-Monday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 16
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 6,206
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
19.5% of the successful bid per lot.
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