Posted by
Gray Ghost on Monday, August 18, 2008 9:59:10 AM
I recently obtained a new rifle. I say "new"; but that is not the appropriate word to describe it. The rifle was built in 1830 (approximately). It is of the "plains rifle" style and is a .40 caliber. The ignition system is percussion. I have included a couple of pictures of it:
Holding my new rifle is like holding history in your hand. When this rifle was built, the Alamo meant nothing outside San Antonio. San Jacinto was a little known river in Texas. David Crockett was still alive and had just been defeated for Congress (the first time) in a close election by forces loyal to President Jackson.
My new rifle was owned by a family in West Louisiana. It had been "handed" down in this family since it was bought in 1830. The gunsmith, who sold it to me, completely checked it out; and I intend on shooting at least once.
For fun, I would love to hear what name you think I should give it. I can't use my wife's name. That name has already been given to my .50 caliber flintlock Virginia pattern rifle. My daughter's name has already been given to my replica Ferguson rifle (a breech loading flintlock designed by Major Patrick Ferguson of the British Army in 1774). If any of you have any suggestions, please say so in your comments.