Percussion Target Rifle by Morgan James of Utica, NY

.40 caliber. 30" octagonal barrel turned for a bullet starter at the muzzle. NSN. Browned finish, one-third length metal forend, brass furniture, hardwood stock with crescent butt. Single shot muzzleloading percussion target rifle. Unmarked back action percussion lock, left angled flat of breech marked M. JAMES/UTICA, N.Y. Barrel measures 1" across the flats at the muzzle. Rifle is equipped with a dovetailed notch rear sight, dovetailed blade front sight, tang with hole for peep sight that is not present. Brass furniture includes a finger rest scroll triggerguard, crescent buttplate and plain toe plate. An old wooden ramrod is secured by two plain iron thimbles.

Morgan James (1815-1878) was one of the most talented and celebrated gun makers in New York state during mid-19th century. It is believed that he learned the gun trade from Utica gunmaker Riley Rogers and upon the completion of his apprenticeship relocated to Lictchfield, CT where he worked circa 1836-1840. He then returned to Utica and set up his shop at 11 Bleeker Street. He worked in partnership with George Ferris during the early 1850s and in addition to making some of the highest quality and accurate target rifles of the time, he was also involved with the design, application and use of early telescopic sights. It is believed that Morgan James' "legendary" temper put an end to this partnership. James was apparently also a chronic alcoholic, which led to financial issues. Circa 1870 James relocated to Ilion, NY where he went to work for Remington until his death in 1878. {ANTIQUE}

This lot is located in Cincinnati.