Quackenbush 22LR 12″ Single Shot Bicycle Rifle MFD 1896-1919 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,025.00
LSB#: WY250324AJ040
Make: Quackenbush
Model: Bicycle Rifle
Serial Number: No Serial Number Visible
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1896–1919, C&R
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Single Shot, Breech Loading
Markings: The left of the frame is marked “H.M.QUACKENBUSH. HERKINER .N.Y. U.S.A./ PAT. IN US & ENG. FEB 23’83 & BELG.MAR15’85 / ENGLAND FEB 23, 86. BELGIUM MAR 15, 86”
Barrel Length: 12”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a notch fixed to the barrel
Stock Configuration & Condition: The retractable wire stock has been removed. This rifle still has its wire pistol grip in place. There is light handling wear present. The stock rates in Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued / Stainless
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright, the rifling is sharp. There is light erosion and stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 75% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational wear and surface oxidation. The screw heads are serviceable with light tool marks. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: The Quackenbush Bicycle Rifle was a compact, lightweight design marketed for portability and ease of storage—perfect for cyclists, hikers, and young shooters in the early 20th century. These rifles were often sold as affordable sporting or varmint guns and were equipped with a detachable wire stock to reduce size and weight.
This particular example appears to be a later-production model, likely from the early 1900s, chambered in .22 Long Rifle and bearing the appropriate patent markings. Though the stock has been removed the rest of this rifle is in its original configuration.
Collectors of early American novelty or youth rifles, and those with an eye for unusual engineering from the turn of the century, will find much to appreciate here. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid -M.C.
