Signed "Frederick Sell" on a brass plate, Littlestown, PA ca1820

Frederick Sell is one of the most prolific Kentucky rifle makers in Pennsylvania. His work is easily recognized and often signed. He worked in Littlestown with his brother Jacob. He is missing from the records for a period of years and is thought he worked with other gunsmiths as a journeyman. He died in Littlestown in 1869.

The 43.5 inch original length large bore barrel is signed in script on a brass plate. The lock is in original flintlock condition, however, there is wood added to the lock mortise and the touch hole is bushed. A sliver of wood is expertly replaced along the forestock. The wood and metal surfaces are old and probably never cleaned. The trigger guard is of a later style. Curly maple of a better grade was used in stocking the rifle; this is likely the second stock. A reasonably priced example with old surfaces.

SOLD 9/2025