Historic firearms attract collectors and practitioners who value authenticity and honest condition reports. This restored flintlock rifle bridges early 19th-century workmanship with careful conservation, offering both display-worthy presence and a clear record of its mechanical state for safe handling and appraisal.

HARPERS FERRY U.S. HARPERS FERRY MODEL 1803 FLINTLOCK RIFLE is an NSN piece made circa 1819 featuring a .54 caliber bore and a 35.75″ octagonal-to-round barrel. The rifle has been reconverted to its original flintlock configuration; barrel and metal parts present a smooth dull grey patina with light surface oxidation. Notable for collectors and historians, the bore has had its rifling removed and is now a smoothbore. The stock has been expertly restored with repaired cracks, and expected nicks and dings are visible. The action holds at both half and full cock positions (AL8127). Priced at $5,500.99, this Single Shot Harpers Ferry example combines provenance with a conservator’s approach to restoration.

The .54 caliber designation is central to understanding how this piece functions historically. In smoothbore form it is optimized for traditional round ball or buckshot at limited ranges — consistent with period tactics and hunting use. Modern shooters and reenactors should note the removal of rifling reduces long-range accuracy but preserves the rifle’s integrity as a restored flintlock in Single Shot classification.

Authenticity, Condition, and Handling

Reconversion to flintlock and the visible grey patina confirm preservation rather than aggressive refinishing. Light surface oxidation on metalwork is expected for an 1819 manufacture date and contributes to the rifle’s documented history. Stock repairs were performed professionally to stabilize the wood while retaining character marks. The verified action positions (half and full cock) are important for safe handling; treat this rifle as a historic firearm requiring experienced inspection before any demonstration or firing.

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Who should consider this rifle?

This Single Shot Harpers Ferry piece is suited for serious collectors, museums, and experienced historical demonstrators who value documented restoration and original mechanisms. At $5,500.99 it represents a specific segment of early American longarms where provenance and preservation guide value. For availability or to purchase, Check availability.

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