This 20-pound percussion target/sharpshooter rifle was built by Charles V. Ramsdell, Bangor, Maine, circa 1861. Ramsdell was perhaps the best known and highest-quality gun maker in Maine before the Civil War, working from 1850 to around 1870. This rifle has a back action lock and appears to be a cross-over between the 2nd and 3rd variations of the Ramsdell built rifles. The bore rates as bright, excellent and is approximately 48 caliber. The barrel measures 33.75″ without the false muzzle. The front face of the nipple guard shows stylized serrations with a heart at the base. Both the barrel and lockplate show the maker's name and the Bangor address. The barrel retains most of its original finish turning to patina. The top shows two screw hole plugs which may well have been mounting bases for a full telescopic sight. The under side shows a similar plug which probably accommodates a barrel rest. All of the fittings show a strong case color. The stock is rather plain and may lead to speculation of military use. The tang wood shows a small crack behind the hammer and a wood repair on the right side. The piece is mounted with a tang lollypop rear adjustable sight and a tunnel target sight with a fold-down protector. This piece is an excellent example of one of the Ramsdell target/sharpshooter rifles. This is an antique and transfers with no federal restriction. RR Auction COA.
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