^Lot 76 Marlin-Ballard Falling Block Single Shot Target Rifle, with John Rigby Retailer Marks

Marlin-Ballard Falling Block Single Shot Target Rifle, with John Rigby Retailer Marks, #35099, sleeved to .22 LR cal., 24'' medium-weight blue octagon barrel, frame and lever were originally case colored. Smooth walnut stock and forend with checkered gutta-percha buttplate. Combination front sight (down for bead, up for covered post), rear dovetailed 3-leaf sight with 25, 75, and 200 yard blades (blades move freely and do not stay in place), and rear peep sight stamped ''PAT. JAN 29 79 MAY 6 84''. Top of barrel is retailer marked ''JOHN RIGBY & Co LONDON & DUBLIN''. Underside of forearm is stamped ''J E F FOWLER''. Left side of block has an illegible British proof. Mfg'd 1890. Condition is good. Blued surfaces have toned to brown/gray. Case colors are now silver with mottled dark spotting. Barrel and frame with scattered pitting. Wood with small scratches and dents consistent with its age. There are a few very fine fissures where the action meets the stock; forend has oil staining. Action functions smoothly with a crisp trigger pull. Bore is bright with clear rifling. Est.: $1,000-$1,500. (Antique)