Half Stock "Pennsylvania Style" Plains Rifle Marked "A. Baker

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Half Stock "Pennsylvania Style" Plains Rifle Marked "A. Baker

As expansion into the American west increased, the need for a shorter rifle which could be more easily handled from horseback came into demand. The traditional, highly decorated, small bore Pennsylvania rifle with extra-long barrels, slender full-length stocks, and ornate patchboxes became more unitarian with shorter barrels, larger calibers, and weight saving half-length stocks. As time progressed, these rifles became more and more "plain" in appearance with heavier weight barrels and ever-increasing calibers required for successful hunting larger game found in the west such as Elk, Grizzly Bears, and Bison. The "Hawken Rifle" becoming the best and well known of this type. The "Hawken" was most plain, and unitarian in nature. Strong, reliable, and accurate. Some, "plains rifles" still offered fancy patchboxes, various decorations, and full figured, half-length stocks. These type "plains rifles" are sometimes referred to as "Pennsylvania style" The example offered in this lot features a 37-inch long octagon to round barrel chambered in .45 caliber with a heavy rifled bore. Percussion lock marked "A. Baker". Walnut stock with checkered wrist and pewter forend cap. Fancy "Pennsylvania" style inlaid brass patchbox, and 19 inlaid German silver decorations with 3 missing. Dimensions: overall length 52" Processing and shipping within the continental U.S $90 plus a 1.5% insurance fee.

Provenance:Purchaced in 1962 by Garland Schulthess (1922-2006). Then by direct family descent.

Condition:

Fine overall showing a pleasing brown patina on the barrel and lockplate. Wood is sound showing modest wear. Action is tight and crisp. Modern, replaced ignition nipple. Brass having been polished, showing a light patina. Overall, a very attractive half-stock Plains Rifle.

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Estimate: $2,500 - $5,000

Price Realized Including Buyer's Premium

$1,438

05/07/2023

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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%.

ANTIQUE WEAPONS AND WESTERN AMERICANA

Half Stock "Pennsylvania Style" Plains Rifle Marked "A. Baker