This fine target rifle was produced by John Belknap of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, in the latter part of the 19th century. Belkap was known for his high end sporting and target rifles. They are incredibly rare as only about a dozen are believed to have been made due to Belknap's premature death at the age of just 48. He also produced a number of other handcrafted implements in his shop. Some of the rifles are believed to have been destroyed in fire and two more were in museum collections in the mid 20th century. The rifle is equipped with a globe front sight on an unmarked heavy octagon barrel. The muzzle is drilled for the included false muzzle. The lock plate is marked "JOHN BELKNAP/ST. ST.JOHNSBURY, VT". An elevation adjustable sight mounting platform marked "J. BELKNAP" in an arch is fitted at the breech. The rifle has double set triggers that are set within a fancy spurred trigger guard with grip extension. The smooth walnut stock has German silver fittings including a patch box and also has a cheekpiece and a pewter forend cap. The rifle comes in a wooden shooter's case divided into sections for the following accessories: false muzzle, bullet starter, two powder flasks, two cap tins, bullet mold, powder measure, powder scale with a tin of weighs, and a bottle of oil. The case also has a block to hold lead bullets.

Very good. The barrel retains traces of the thinned brown finish. Traces of case colors can been seen on the lock which also has some mild pitting. The German silver furniture has a slightly yellow aged patina. The forend cap has a dark patina and some scratches. The revarnished stock is very food with some minor dings and scratches in the otherwise smooth and glossy surfaces. The action is excellent, and the markings are legible. The rear section of the rear sight mount and the peep sight are absent, and the front sight hood is bent. Most of the accessories are in fine condition with the exception of the smaller flask which has the top broken. The case is fine with some moderate handling and storage wear.