New York Percussion Sporting Rifle by John Rector of Syracuse

Serial #1427, .38 Caliber, 30 1/2" heavy octagon barrel with a fine bore that has some mild freckling within the grooves. This is a very handsome and well-made rifle that retains 90-92% of the original browned finish along the barrel with some areas of mild fading along the edges and at the muzzle which is turned for a no longer present bullet-starter. The breech flat has a clear maker’s marking as well: "J.H. RECTOR – SYRACUSE N.Y." The graceful back-action lock has extensive floral scrollwork filigree that continues onto the wolf’s head hammer, and the double-set triggers are fully functional with a crisp light break when set. The rifle has fixed sights on the barrel, but the wrist tang is tapped for a no longer present lollipop tang sight. The walnut half-stock has a checkered wrist and numerous small handling marks and blemishes scattered throughout the added oil finish. The forend has a pewter nosecap and German silver wedge escutcheons with a characteristic nickel silver patchbox on the right side of the butt, and a trumpeting angel inlay opposite. The rifle has what appears to be the original brass-tipped wooden ramrod which is secured by two urn-shaped thimbles and a German silver tailpipe. John H. Rector was a well known central New York maker who was active from 1837 – 1867, and operated in Syracuse from 1844 – 1867. He was awarded US Patent #5402 on December 18, 1847, for a method of securing a false muzzle to a rifle barrel, and has an extensive entry in "The New York State Firearms Trade" Vol. 3 by H.J. Swinney and Tom Rowe (2003). This particular rifle is very similar to one illustrated on pages 1322 and 1323 of that book. This is a splendid 19th century New York sporting rifle, and would make a wonderful addition to any collection. Antique