G.L. Jones-Mathews Kentucky Rifle .50 Cal. 42” BP Cap & Ball Rifle Antique
LSB#: 190323RB04
SOLD FOR: $1,426
Make: G.L. Jones-Mathews
Model: Kentucky Rifle
Serial Number: Not Serialized
Year of Manufacture: Unknown, ATF Antique
Caliber: .50 Caliber Ball
Action Type: Single Shot Black Powder Cap and Ball Rifle
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “G.L. Jones-MATHEWS”.
Barrel Length: 42”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a flat top leaf with a small “U” notch and is dovetailed into the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is smooth wood with engraving and a patchbox in the side of the butt. The engraving is located on the left side of the butt, sides and top of the wrist, and also at the palm swell running forward to the brass endcap. The stock has some faint compressions and minor handling wear. The LOP measures 13 7/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the brass buttplate. The brass buttplate has tarnished slightly and has spots of discoloration, it also features an engraving of three arrows and wings on the comb. The stock rates in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Brown & Brass Accents
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows tarnish to the brass sideplate and trigger guard. The sideplate and hammer have pitted and there is some light surface oxidation present on the top tang and hammer. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are strong. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good Plus-Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, though some pins are missing from the side plate. 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: From about 1700 until about 1900, long rifles like this were the standard long arm for soldiers and civilians alike. It was likely a Flintlock Kentucky rifle in the hands of the Minute Men that fired “The Shot Heard ‘Round The World” and also the Kentucky rifle that Charlton Heston declared “From My Cold Dead Hands”. This rifle is the image of American independence, and without its rifled barreled accuracy, percussion cap ignition system and practicality as a field weapon – we could still be one of the colonies. Please see our photos and good luck!