This is a nice Virginia style longrifle by Jeff Sadler. It is copied from the only known signed gun by Archibald Rutherford of Rockingham Co., VA. The original was in percussion as well. Pictures of the original can be found in the book "Gunsmith of Virginia" on pages 132-133. Copies of the pages will come with the gun.

This rifle is one of two made as a wedding set for the current owner. The other is the left hand version listed. Both are personalized on the wrist plate and both are numbered 19. Jeff copied the original so closely that he even cut the rear of the tang to include the fill pieces. The original apparently had a barrel swap at one time in it's life. The first barrel had a square tang but a pointed tang was put in later and the gaps filled in with small pieces of wood. The rifle has many acorn styled inlays which is a typical Virginia influence.

 This rifle is stocked in a piece of nice curly maple that that is stained to a nice medium reddish brown. The hardware is brass and has a polished surface. There is a residue of Brasso in the engraving and crevices that could be cleaned out with a toothbrush and soapy water. The patchbox is a commercial one that has been nicely engraved. The barrel is probably a Colerain or Getz, 37" long swamped in .54 caliber. It is held in with three wedges. The bore is in excellent condition. The front sight has an ivory blade insert which works well in bright or dim light. The lock is a large Siler percussion style. A large flint style could be swapped into the gun if so desired making it convertible. The steel parts have an aged brown color. Overall it is in excellent condition. Inlets are tight and well done. Holds and balances very nicely. Good length for hunting.

 I was told that Jeff worked with guidance from Keith Casteel and it shows in many of the details.

Weight is 7 lbs. 10 oz.    Pull is 14¼".