Reproduction GRICE 1762 Brown Bess 42” .75 Cal BP Flintlock Musket, 1960s
SOLD FOR: $1,435.00
LSB#: LSB250727AM072
Make: Unknown
Model: Grice 1762 Second Model Brown Bess
Serial#: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1960s
Caliber: .75 Cal Black Powder
Action Type: Smooth Bore Muzzle Loading Flintlock Black Powder Rifle.
Markings: The lock plate is marked “GRICE 1762” with a “GR” Crown. The top of the barrel is marked, “1 REGT GUARDS GR’S”. The wrist has a plate marked 1 GR 9”.
Barrel Length: 42”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a rectangular block fixed to the barrel. There is no rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The stock is one piece walnut with side plate, lock plate, straight grip, straight raised comb, brass buttplate, brass capped forend, four brass ramrod pipes, sling ring on the forend, sling loop integral to the front of the trigger guard, and installed ramrod. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are no cracks, but there are a few small chips. The LOP is 14.5 from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall this stock rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: In the White, Brass
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The smoothbore is dark and full of rust. There is erosion throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 3/10.
Overall Condition: This musket retains about 40% of its finish. There is heavy rust and patina throughout. The brass fittings have moderate patina. The screw heads are mostly sharp and the pins are unmarred. The markings are plurry in spots. Overall this musket rates in Poor to Fair condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this musket. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. There is a brass flash guard on the flash pan.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: Steel ramrod.
Our Assessment: This is a reproduction of the famed British Second Model Brown Bess, patterned after the “Grice 1762” variant widely issued during the mid-to-late 18th century. While lacking a visible manufacturer’s mark, this musket was likely produced in the 1960s, during a period of renewed interest in black powder reenactment and Revolutionary War history. With its 42″ barrel, GR-marked lockplate, and large .75 caliber bore, this example adheres closely to the lines and configuration of the original Short Land Pattern. The engraved barrel and wrist plate—marked “1 REGT GUARDS GR’S” and “1 GR 9” respectively—suggest this may have been built or customized for ceremonial or reenactor use, potentially representing the 1st Regiment of Foot Guards. Though age and storage have taken a toll on the finish, this piece retains undeniable historic appeal. The steel surfaces show widespread oxidation, with deep patina and heavy rust consistent with decades of display or field use. The bore is rough, with extensive erosion, and rates 3/10, but the action remains mechanically functional, and the flintlock sparks reliably with a well-fitting frizzen. The walnut stock has held up better than the metalwork, showing honest handling marks, some scattered dings, and minor chips, but no major cracks or structural concerns. The brass furniture has taken on a deep, attractive patina and fits the stock well, with original sling hardware and flash guard still present.
While not in shooter-grade condition, this musket carries strong visual presence and functional integrity as a reenactor’s arm or historical wall-hanger. The markings and configuration suggest it once saw use as part of a living history unit, offering a tangible link to 18th-century British military heritage. As a vintage reproduction, it may appeal to collectors of early black powder replicas or Revolutionary War displays seeking authenticity of form, even if not of finish. We are no longer offering layaway. -R.E.
