Firearms in the German principalities were almost exclusively owned by the elite until the mid-19th century. Thus, surviving examples are rare and desirable and many are emblematic of their prior owner's wealth. Wheel locks were invented in the early 16th century and used into the early 18th century but were never very wide spread because they were incredibly time consuming and difficult to create. A well-tuned wheel lock had faster ignition than flintlocks. This rifle likely dates to the last half of the 17th century or the early-18th century and has the traditional German style overall. It has blade and notch sights, several small markings on top at the breech, a peep sight just behind the barrel tang, elaborate classical themed engraving on the lock, extensive scroll designs on the carving and brass accents, bone and ebony inlays, provisions for a vent pick on the underside of the cheek rest, and "AM/I" monogram inlaid in the cheek rest in the center of a floral and scroll motif, the St. Hubertus stag carved on the left side of the butt (different hand than the other carving suggesting a later addition), and a combination spanner and powder measure.