Browning & Heber San Francisco Percussion Target Rifle

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Browning & Heber San Francisco Percussion Target Rifle

An exceptionally nice Browning & Heber percussion target rifle in .40 caliber, made in San Francisco between 1873 - 1877. The rifle has an exceptionally handsome stock with checkered wrist and a carved cheek rest, and a very slight fish-belly curve to the underside of the stock. It has an octagonal barrel the top of which has been given a textured finish to lessen reflection, fancy German silver mounts, with a pewter forend cap, double-set triggers, a tang mounted folding peep sight, false muzzle with original bullet starter, and is stamped Browning & Heber San Francisco Cal. on the right side flat of the barrel. The stock was apparently carved by Heber, who was known for this particular set of characteristics. August Browning and William Heber were both born in Germany in 1837 and 1836 respectively. They arrived in California in 1859 and 1861 respectively. Both formed partnerships with various other gun makers at different times. Browning & Heber only worked together for four years, and this rifle could be considered the ultimate expression of the best of their partnership. Size: overall length is 50 3/4 inches. That includes the bullet starter. The barrel is 30 1/2 inches long. Processing and shipping within the continental U.S. $75.00 plus 1.5% replacement cost insurance. Discounts given on combined lot shipping.

Provenance:Shelton Collection

Condition:

The gun is about excellent overall, with a beautiful stock, very good plus to excellent metal, a crisp, fast action. The bore is excellent with strong rifling. There is some very minor pitting by the breech.

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Estimate: $1,000 - $2,500

Price Realized Including Buyer's Premium

$748

10/01/2023

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Witherell strives to provide as much information and photographs as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Condition statements are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Witherell. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms and Conditions. Methods of payment are cash, check, money orders, or wire transfer for foreign payments. Please note we do not accept credit cards. This auction has a buyer's premium of 15%.

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Browning & Heber San Francisco Percussion Target Rifle