Near Excellent Commercial Snider Mk. III Rifle by BSA 1869

Serial #7444, .577 Snider, 36 1/2" barrel with and excellent, bright bore.  This is a truly handsome, BSA-made rifle has 85-90% of the original blue remaining on the barrel, with some freckling and traces of a warm, plum-brown patina on the balance.  Much of the original color case-hardening remains on the "BSA Co. / 1869"-marked lock.  The breechblock retains a commensurate amount of color case-hardening, while the brass trigger guard, nosecap, and buttplate have a mild yellow-ochre patina.  The walnut stock has few handling marks in the original oil finish, and a retail or club stamp is present on the left side opposite the lock: "FIELD RIFLE Co. / BIRMINGHAM."  An original ramrod is included, and the chained firing pin protector is still in place.  The action lock-up is tight and fully functional.  These well-made rifles were used in military rifle matches, and this example is fine-near excellent condition overall.  Antique