Lot 926 - Harper's Ferry - Model 1816 Type III - .69 cal - rifle in Topeka, KS

Very Attractive condition - 42" barrel - The Model 1816 was originally designed as a flintlock muzzleloader, iron buttplate is straight against the shoulder, iron strap opposite the lock, iron trigger guard, no rear sight, 2 iron barrel bands, 2 strap hooks with button or cylindrical swivel, large iron nose guard serves as 3rd band and forward sight, bayonet lug on top of barrel at muzzle, steel ramrod is button head and threaded. Manufactured by Harpers Ferry Armory, Harpers Ferry Virginia from 1816 through 1844. Most were converted to percussion in the 1850's, this 1 by the "Belgian cone" method, this alteration was performed at the arsenals. Inspector "D" stamped behind nipple. The flintlock pan was milled flat to the lock, the void filled with brass and the top milled flush with the lock, the flintlock hole was plugged, a nipple lug was placed on top of the barrel slightly to the side of lock, and a new hammer was placed to achieve the correct alignment. Lock is marked "HARPERS / FERRY / 1841" behind the hammer, with eagle head and "US" in front. Barrel is marked "VP" over eagle head, breech tang date is "1882". Buttplate is marked "US". Metal appearance pleasing with light brown patina, pitting around the breech, wood solid with dings and scratches from use, hairline crack at rear tang placement, three bands intact, both strap hooks intact - sling swivels - ram rod intact - socket bayonet marked US & six - year. manufacturing