.69 caliber - Model of 1816
Barrel is marked "US" and "NWP" (Nahum W. Patch), a well known military rifle inspector.
The lockplate reads US D.NIPPES. PHILA
While the model year is 1816, it is dated 1837 on the lockplate and 1838 on the barrel.
While percussion weapons were already being made in the late 1830's the older flintlock designs continued to be manufactured as well. One reason was that percussion caps were not always available, particularly in the West, where many weapons were being used and shipped.
The checkering at the rear of the stock was not done at the time of manufacture, but rather by a soldier or someone else who had spare time to add a personal touch. There is a repaired wood crack on both sides of the stock that traverses the checkering and extends two inches up the stock towards the trigger. Other minor wood chips are between the 1838 date and the hammer as well as behind the lockplate.
Colorful green corrosion highlights the brass flash pan. 58 inch total length.
For purchase or inquiries, please call us at (504) 522-3305 and let us know you are interested in WB-23-2009 E-172
