Percussion Model 1817 Common Rifle by Deringer (AL5135)

Percussion Model 1817 Common rifle by Deringer. This is an original percussion rifle with the bolster integral to the barrel. It is believed that Deringer made these in an attempt to obtain U.S. or state militia contracts. Overall length in 51”. The 36” round .58 caliber smoothbore barrel has a good bore. There are two indistinct inspection letters on the barrel. The rear fixed sight has a flip-up leaf with two sighting notches. The lock is marked “US/ Deringer/ Philadelphia” in the same style as the “Box Lock” Model 1842 Navy pistol. The metal has a smooth gray or gray/brown patina. The stock is very good with sharp edges and no cracks or chips. The ramrod is absent. Front swivel is absent. The patchbox, which operates correctly, has a small plaque with the script initials “AEB” in the interior. Action functions correctly. This is a nice example of the rarely-seen original percussion Deringer Common rifle. It is a great example of the transition from flint to percussion.