Unlike Winchester, Sharps, and other rifle makers, Whitney actually discouraged special orders which makes special order Whitney-Kennedy rifles particularly scarce. Only 22 Kennedys in .44 caliber with part octagon barrels are noted as part of the survey data reported on page 221 of "Lever Action Magazine Rifles Derived from the Patents of Andrew Burgess" by Maxwell. This model was only manufactured c. 1879-1886. This rifle has an unclear letter prefix on the lower tang, but it appears to be "G." It has a German silver "Rocky Mountain" blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, "WHITNEYVILLE ARMORY CT. U.S.A. KENNEDY" ahead of the rear sight, "44 CAL C.F." by the breech, "PAT'D JANY. 7-73/AP.-1(2) MAY 13 & AUG.12-79." on the upper tang, the early serpentine style lever, and smooth stock and forearm with crescent buttplate and empty stock compartment.

Good with patches of original blue finish in protected areas and otherwise gray and brown patina, marks and enlargement of the hole at the central screw on the right side of the frame, minor pitting, and some scattered scratches and marks. An empty hole is on the forearm cap for a sling swivel. The wood is good and has extensive wear visible overall, some small chips at the edges, and moderate scrapes and dents. Mechanically excellent.