Unsigned Henry Bruner, Salisbury, Rowan County, North Carolina ca 1810

This example was made by Herny III; both his father and grandfather were gunsmiths in Rowan County. There are 4 know Bruner rifles; this being the earliest and possibly by Herny Jr who died in 1803. It is pictured and described in detail by Bill Ivey in his book on North Carolina rifles (#150). The originality and condition is very good for a southern rifle that saw alot of use by generations. All the silver inlays including the forestock wedges are original; the combination star/man-in-the moon cheek piece was secured by tacks during it's period of use. Minor wood repair at wrist is hard to detect. Relief carving on a North Caroliina rifle is rare and desirable; this example is relief carved in an intersting & simplistic style.

The patchbox has gilloche upper and lower plates, an unusual pineapple finial, and the lid release is an elipitcal silver button within the elaborate gilloche toe plate extending to the trigger guard. The rifled barrel is 43", it's original length, and about .42 cal. The original flintlock is in unaltered condition.

The level of decoration, the condition, and the desireable surface quality of this rifle make it a rarity amoung North Carolina rifles of this early period.

Ex. Coll: Joe Byerly. Thanks to Bill Ivey and Michael Briggs for information on the Bruners

Available $18,800.00