William Hawken Heavy Full-Stock Flintlock Kentucky Rifle (.58 Caliber)
This is an exceptional example of a William Hawken heavy full-stock flintlock rifle, chambered in .58 caliber, showcasing the historic transition from eastern longrifle architecture to the rugged demands of the western frontier. Barrel length is 40 inches and 1.1/8" across the flat, Dovetail mounted German silver blade front site with fixed V-Notch rear site in dovetail 12.1/4" from Breech. A 2nd dovetail is found 7.1/2" from breech. Top flat of Barrel is marked "W. Hawken". William Hawken, 1798-1885, of Williamsport, MD. was the 5th son of Christian Hawken and brother to the famous St. Louis gunsmiths Jacob and Samuel Hawken. This Eastern-style longrifle features a robust, heavy barrel tailored for large North American game. Traditional flintlock mechanism featuring an elegantly shaped hammer, frizzen, and lockplate. The lightly engraved trade lock is marked "LONDON / WARRANTED. A gorgeous full-length wooden stock made from figured maple, extending all the way down to the muzzle end. Detailed brass furniture, including a prominent brass nose cap, ramrod thimbles, an ornate trigger guard, and a large, intricately engraved brass patchbox inset on the right side of the buttstock. Equipped with adjustable double-set triggers. The rifle displays a rich, naturally aged patina across the barrel and lock mechanism, seamlessly complementing the warm tones and fine grain structure of the historical wood stock. Barrel: 1.1/8" Across Flats 40" long Circa: 1st half of 19th C