R.S. Clark J. Briggs .42 Cal Percussion Extra Plains Rifle, 1840-70 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1005
LSB#: 210519RS08
Make: R.S. Clark Lock, J. Briggs Barrel
Model: Extra Plains Rifle
Serial Number: NSN
Year of Manufacture: 1840-1870 Antique
Caliber: .42 Cap & Ball
Action Type: Black Powder Muzzle Loading Percussion Rifle
Markings: The lock plate is marked “RS Clark / Extra”. The hammer and lockplate have floral engraving. The top of the barrel is marked “J. BRIGGS”.
Barrel Length: 32” half round half octagonal.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the font of the barrel. The rear sight is a U-notch dovetailed at the rear of the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The half-stock is one-piece wood with a checkered straight grip, straight comb, and a crescent brass buttplate. There are metal inlays at the bottom of the forend, under the left assembly screw, and on either side of the buttstock. The wood shows compressions and draglines but no chips of cracks. The checkering on the grip is worn. The LOP measures 12” and 13” from the front of the triggers to the back of the buttplate, respectively. The buttplate shows scattered nicks, scratches, and pitting with scattered discoloration. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition as antique.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling is worn but visible. There is erosion and pitting in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 0% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows and even patina throughout the barrel. The hammer and lock plate have lost their finish. There are little nicks and scratches throughout the metal. The screw heads are serviceable. The markings are legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fair-Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: A small piece at the end of the hammer has chipped off. Otherwise, the action functions correctly. The hammer has a half cock safety position. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is an antique plains rifle. The lock was manufactured by R.S. Clark of England. Based on appearance, it looks as if this was a flintlock that was converted to percussion and rebarreled when it made its way to the States. This antique rifle was manufactured between 1840 & 1870. This rifle is in about Fair-Good condition with visible rifling in the bore and an even patina on the barrel. Please see our photos and good luck!