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Japanese Matchlock Short Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:375.00 USD
Japanese Matchlock Short Rifle
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Japanese Matchlock (or Tanegashima) Short Rifle, with decorated barrel, NVSN, .50 cal., 20'' silver inlaid octagon barrel that is decorated with silver and silver wire inlays of leaves and flowers, butterflies, fan, and fly whisk. Muzzle is decorated with geometric patterns around the edge, and round circles on the muzzle end. Wood stock has brass inlaid circles to reinforce the action and barrel pin retainers. There is a hole for the ramrod, but none is present. Action is complete with hammer and spring, and brass cover for the touch hole. Barrel is signed by the maker on the bottom underside. Condition is fair to good with the barrel showing a dark patina overall, and numerous light rust pits, dings, and high edgewear to the octagon lines. Front sight is missing. Bore is dark and lightly rusted. Action does not function. Stock has several large cracks and splits in the wood, and a small chunk missing from the lower edge of the butt. One small round brass inlay pin ferrule for the action pin is missing from the left side of the stock. Overall length is 31''. Matchlocks in this size are fairly uncommon. Est.: $750-$1,500. (Antique)