Lot 392: Whitworth Percussion Match Target Rifle

The Whitworth rifle was designed by Sir Joseph Whitworth as a replacement for the Enfield Pattern 1853 but became famous in the hands of Confederate sharpshooters and British competition shooters. This rifle features an adjustable globe front sight, adjustable notch and ladder rear sight with "MANCHESTER ORDNANCE & RIFLE CO" on the right side of the base, "WHITWORTH PATENT" on top of the barrel, London proofmarks and the serial number on the bottom of the barrel, the matching serial number repeated on the breech hook and forend along with the lower tang, long range Vernier peep sight mounted on the upper tang, the crown trademark and "MANCHESTER ORDNANCE & RIFLE Co" marked on the lock which has a sliding safety ahead of the hammer, a horn forend cap, checkered panels on the forend and wrist of the pistol grip stock, and a smooth steel buttplate.

Very good with 80% of the dull refinished blue finish remaining on the barrel, traces of original case colors, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, some light oxidation, and generally minor overall wear. The reoiled stock is also very good and has mostly crisp checkering, occasional marks and scratches, and minor handling and storage wear. Mechanically excellent.