In the late 19th century and early 20th century target shooting was an incredibly popular sport. Hunting was less common in the genteel East than it was West of the Mississippi where game was still plentiful. Target shooting was so popular that many wealthy men had indoor shooting parlors built onto their homes. Many men, and some women, travelled throughout the country to participate serious competition, and the top marksmen of the day were similar to modern day sports stars. Some specialized in handguns while others focused on off-hand and long range rifle shooting. Maynard rifles were suitable for hunting and target shooting especially when purchased as multi-barrel sets. This set includes one 30 inch .38 caliber barrel with a longer octagonal section, the serial number "9884" on the bottom, and the rear sight fitted above the front of the forearm and an extra 26 inch .32-20 barrel with short octagonal section, the caliber designation and "25" on the bottom, and the rear sight near the breech. Both barrels have combination blade and globe front sights, elevation adjustable sporting rear sights, levers, and multi-point checkered forearms with Schnabel tips. The action has "MANUFACTURED BY/MASS. ARMS. CO./CHICOPEE FALLS./1882" on the right side and "EDWARD MAYNARD (double stamped)/PATENTEE/MAY 27. 1851./DEC. 6. 1859." and "1873" on the left side. The lower tang has the serial number, and a tang mounted Vernier peep sight and a sight rest are fitted on the upper tang. The aperture disk is marked "PATD. MAY 17. 1887." and has six aperture hole sizes. The pistol grip buttstock has multi-point checkering and a nickel plated Swiss buttplate. A leather bound takedown case that the consignor believes is original to the set is included. The exterior has some light border and floral designs. The interior is divided into compartments for the rifle components and has others for accessories.

Very fine. 90% of the original blue finish and 85% vivid case colors remain and 98% plus of the original nickel plating remains on the buttplate. Most of the screw heads and the sight components also retain strong original finish. There is some fading on the muzzle ends of both barrels and some minor handling and storage marks throughout. The wood is also very fine and has crisp checkering, and some light scratches primarily on the sides of the butt. The action functions fine, and the markings are clear. The case is fair and has a section missing from the leading edge of the lid and some tears and rub wear on the leather.