^Lot 5383 IMPOSING 19TH CENTURY AMBERG PERCUSSION WALLBÜCHSE

Cal. 90. NSN. Bbl. 35 3/4" swamped octagon. Barrel has crown proofs on top flat at breech. This massive rifle is marked "AMBERG 1840 / Bavarian crown" on the lockplate. Designed to be used to defend walls or ramparts, these rifles would outrange the standard infantry weapons of the era. The much heavier projectile weighing in the neighborhood of 1,000 grains was propelled by between 300 and 400 grains of black powder. Ladder rear sight graduated to 1,200 meters has inverted graduations. The sight base is fitted in a dovetail and has reference marks to allow it to be drifted for windage. Inverted "V" front sight also mounted in dovetail. Lockplate has a notable curved construction. Tumbler has only full cock position. Rifle fitted with double action double set triggers. The walnut half-stock secured by two wedges has a massive iron buttplate. Sliding patchbox on right side of stock with wooden cover. Iron forend tip has a notable lip at its forward edge. CONDITION: stock has notable wear, scratches and handling marks. The finish appears to be original. Stock has a notable crack between the forward end of the trigger guard and the sideplate on the left side. Small crack between top sideplate screw and breech. Approximately 1" crack behind tail of lock. Metalwork has light wear turning overall gray and patina with numerous areas of fine oxidation. Bore has prominent lands with oxidation and fine pitting throughout. (01-29159/RW). ANTIQUE. $2,500-3,500.