G.R. Douglas Kentucky Longrifle .45 Caliber Flintlock 42” Octagon Barrel
SOLD FOR: $1,026.80
LSB#: WY241202MH072
Make: G.R. Douglas (Custom Build)
Model: Kentucky Longrifle
Serial Number: NVSN (No Visible Serial Number)
Year of Manufacture: Estimated 1980s-1990s (Custom Handcrafted)
Caliber: .45 Caliber
Action Type: Flintlock, Single Shot
Barrel Length: 42” Octagon Barrel
Sights / Optics: The rifle is equipped with a blade front sight, which has some paint applied for visibility, and a V-notch rear sight dovetailed to the barrel, consistent with traditional longrifle design.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle is stocked in beautiful maple wood with strong striation patterns, exhibiting ornate line work throughout the stock. The craftsmanship includes detailed hand-carved embellishments, giving the rifle a classic and elegant appearance. There are a few minor scuffs and scratches from handling, but overall, the stock remains structurally solid and rates in very good condition. The rifle also features a patchbox, further enhancing its traditional styling.
Type of Finish: Aged Browned Finish with Oxidation
Finish Originality: Original
Markings: The barrel is marked “G.R. Douglas .45 Cal.”, confirming its high-quality barrel production by G.R. Douglas, a well-known name in custom muzzleloading rifle barrels.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with strong rifling, showing some oxidation and storage residue. While it would benefit from a thorough cleaning, the rifling remains well-defined. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: The rifle shows honest wear with oxidation and some storage residue throughout. The set trigger functions properly, adding precision for target shooting. The engraved line work is intricate and well-executed, contributing to the rifle’s ornate and classic appearance. The lock and barrel show some aging and oxidation, but the rifle retains a well-preserved, historically appropriate patina. Overall, this Kentucky Longrifle rates in good to very good condition.
Mechanics: The flintlock mechanism functions as expected, sparking properly, and the set trigger is crisp. The hammer holds securely at half and full cock, and the lock engages properly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all black powder firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary before use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This G.R. Douglas Kentucky Longrifle is a fine example of traditional American longrifle craftsmanship, blending classic styling with high-quality modern barrel manufacturing. Though the piece appears very old, it was likely handcrafted in the 1980s or 1990s, incorporating historical accuracy and period-correct techniques.
Kentucky rifles were a staple of early American frontier life, valued for their accuracy, reliability, and artistry. This particular rifle features a 42” octagon barrel, a flintlock ignition system, an ornate patchbox, and extensive line work embellishments. The maple stock’s natural grain and the fine carving work make it as much a work of art as a functional firearm.
For reenactors, collectors, and black powder shooting enthusiasts, this G.R. Douglas longrifle is an excellent balance of traditional craftsmanship and shooting capability. Whether for historical display, target shooting, or black powder hunting, this is a beautifully crafted and enjoyable rifle. So bid high and bid firm. Please take a look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
