New Lisbon, New York
This unusual lever operated dropping block action has a brass receiver that is 8-7/8 inches long and 3-1/2 inches high. The 3-3/4-inch-long breechblock operates at about a 20-degree angle and only closes the rear of the barrel when it is at its uppermost position. Although the breechblock operates at an angle, the face of the breechblock is vertical, to match the vertical face of the chamber. As can be seen in the top view of the breechblock, there is also a groove in the face of the breechblock. The edges of this groove grasp the head of the cartridge as it is loaded into the chamber, holding it in position as the breechblock is raised. The angle of the breechblock imparts a camming action which forces the cartridge into the chamber if it is stopped by dirt in the chamber, corrosion on the cartridge, etc. The groove also acts as the extractor for the fired cartridge. Note also that the wings on the sides of the breechblock give added support to the chamber. The two-leaf rear sight has two holes in each leaf, both of which appear to be at the same level.
Measurement: .32-Caliber Rim Fire, Overall Length: 41.25"; Barrel Length: 25.75"
Material: Walnut Stock, Brass frame, Crescent form buttplate, and steel
Item Condition: Very good with mellow patina on the brass frame and buttplate. The barrel has a brown patina, and the trigger guard/lever a gray patina; the trigger guard displays scattered trivial light surface rust that looks more like staining. The wood has been revarnished. There is a sliver of wood missing [2.25” by 3/8”] at the rear of the left side forearm.
Provenance: Linus N. Chapin (1812-1895) of New Lisbon, NY applied for a patent on this action 23 December 1863. Patent #42748 was granted to him 17 May 1864. This rifle was owned by Frank Sellers, author of the monumental American Gunsmiths.
Literature: For additional information see The New York State Firearms Trade by H.J. Swinney – Compiled by Tom Roe, page 362
Price: $6,225
SKU 308-694
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.
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