Possibly Henry Spitzer, New Market, Shenandoah County, Virginia ca 1815

Here is an excellent example of a Virginia rifle possibly by Henry Spitzer of New Market. This type of pierced side plate was used by Henry as well as his sons Charles and William. Henry was fairly prolific but only 4 rifles are known to be signed.

The rifle remains in great condtion though the stock was cleaned to reveal excellent curly maple. The Ketland lock is in its orginial flintlock configuration and is original to the rifle. The rifled barrel is 43", it's original length, about .50 cal. and is slightly flared at the muzzle. All mounts are original. A sliver of wood about 12"X 3/8" is replaced along the forestock. Original wood is uniterrupted from the butt stock to the fore end cap.

Though unsigned, as many Virginia rifles are, this example has attributes to Henry Spitzer, great curly maple, typical low combed Virginia architecture, unaltered flintlock, silver inlays and incised carving making it a desireable addition to any collection of Kentucky rifles.

SOLD 10/25