Wheellock Hunting rifles from 1652 - Matched Pair

Published on October 13, 2019
Duration: 7:52

This video showcases a matched pair of 25 caliber wheellock hunting rifles from 1652, highlighting their intricate craftsmanship and historical significance. The presenter details the walnut stocks with extensive horn and bone inlays, sliding patch boxes, and the complex wheel lock mechanism. The rifles feature fully rifled barrels, fine sights, and gilded metalwork, with unique gothic numbering on each gun. Despite their age and some signs of repair, these rifles represent a remarkable piece of historical firearms engineering.

Quick Summary

A matched pair of 1652 wheellock hunting rifles from Holt Auctioneers showcases remarkable 17th-century craftsmanship. These 25 caliber firearms feature walnut stocks with horn and bone inlays, a sliding patch box, a rifled barrel, and an engraved wheel lock mechanism. The pair is numbered '1' and '2', highlighting their rarity and historical preservation.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Holt Auctioneers
  2. 00:10Overview of 1652 Wheellock Hunting Rifles
  3. 00:44Stock and Inlay Details
  4. 00:53Patch Box and Inlay Work
  5. 01:18Detailed Look at the Wheel Lock Mechanism
  6. 01:28Engraving on the Lock Plate
  7. 01:44Explanation of How the Wheel Lock Works
  8. 02:05Setting the Hair Trigger
  9. 02:22Loading and Firing Process
  10. 02:24Rifled Barrel and Sights
  11. 02:46Gilded Metalwork and Crests
  12. 03:03Maker's Marks and Barrel Identification
  13. 03:11Significance of the Numbered Matched Pair
  14. 03:34Gothic Numbering Detail
  15. 03:40Number Two Rifle Condition
  16. 03:50Wooden Inlet on the Side
  17. 04:05Rifles Not For Sale Individually
  18. 04:20Original Ramrod Demonstration
  19. 04:32Historical Gunmaker Capabilities
  20. 04:44Firing Sequence and Trigger Feel
  21. 04:54Powder and Recoil Considerations
  22. 05:11Firing Rate and Preparation Time
  23. 05:24Flint/Metal Striker Area
  24. 05:31Mainspring and Condition Concerns
  25. 05:39Estimated Value of the Pair
  26. 05:47Rear Leaf Sight Details
  27. 06:08Signs of Age and Repair
  28. 06:10Stock Cracks and Repairs
  29. 06:15Dents and Woodwork Damage
  30. 06:26Fireability Discussion
  31. 06:34Metal Parts Condition
  32. 06:41Apology for Enthusiasm
  33. 06:50Austrian Hunting Rifle Context
  34. 06:54Final Look Over

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a wheellock mechanism and how does it work on these 1652 rifles?

The wheellock mechanism on these 1652 hunting rifles uses a wound spring to spin a serrated wheel against a piece of iron or steel. This action creates sparks that ignite the gunpowder in the pan, firing the weapon. It was a precursor to flintlock mechanisms and required careful preparation before firing.

What are the key features of the 1652 wheellock hunting rifles shown?

These rifles boast walnut stocks with extensive horn and bone inlays, a sliding patch box, a fully rifled barrel, and a finely engraved lock plate depicting a cherub fighting a beast. They also feature gilded metalwork and a hair trigger for precise aiming.

Why is the fact that these are a matched pair significant?

The significance of these being a matched pair, numbered '1' and '2', lies in their rarity. Historical firearms often get separated or lost over centuries. The fact that this pair has remained together since 1652 is a testament to their preservation and historical value.

What is the estimated value and condition of these antique wheellock rifles?

This matched pair of 1652 wheellock hunting rifles is estimated to be worth around 16,000 pounds. While they show signs of age, including repaired stock cracks and some dents, they are considered potentially fireable, though this carries significant risk.

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