Manufactured using a Belgian made percussion musket as the basis, this arm has been converted into a single shot bolt action rifle by means of a system developed by L. Merckelbagh; information on Merckelbagh and his design are scarce, though his work is believed to be a counterpart to the American Allin "trapdoor" system and the Snider conversion, a means of taking then-obsolete muzzle loading muskets and rifles and giving them new lease of life as breechloading arms. Some information suggests that rifles in this style may have been acquired by the French during the Franco-Prussian War, as a supplement to their Chassepot and Tabatiere rifles. A large opening has been made at the rear of the barrel to accommodate a bolt assembly and a transfer bar set up positioned similar to the original percussion nipple, so as to be struck by the percussion hammer. The right side of the bolt is marked "J. BERTRAND" (a manufacturer of arms in Liege, Belgium), with "L.MERCKELBAGH/BREVETE" on the reverse, with a set of leather gaskets behind the bolt face. In operation, the bolt is hinged, allowing it to tip up and out of the way for loading, allowing for a much shorter path of travel than many bolt designs. The stock required few modifications, with a dished cheek rest and a flat buttplate. Provenance: This rifle was loaned by the consignor to the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, England.

Very good. The bright surfaces show some bright wear and spotting, along with a few areas of shallow pitting. The stock is good, with a few areas of filled-in wood, light chipping on the edges and scattered dings and dents. Mechanically fine.