Rare Greene Under Hammer Capping Breechloading Rifle

This is a rare and extraordinary rifle! James Durell Greene called this rifle his "Plug Ugly", it has the distinction of being the first bolt action breech loading rifle purchased by the USA Army and a host of extraordinary features. The most significant feature is that it is forward loaded, the bullet is behind the charge which means that the first shot is blank unless you insert a loose bullet. This allowed the bullet at the rear to seal the breech which was then pushed forward by a plunger within the bolt. The cartridge was detonated from the side by an under hammer percussion cap. Greene also incorporated into the rifle a Lancaster Oval Bore on the basis that it wouldn't foul and would adapt the rifle for muzzle loading should the bolt seize. Another innovation was a compartment in the butt for the cleaning rod which was subsequently adapted for most USA Military rifles.
Greene was a prolific inventor and produced the Greene Carbine with a different locking mechanism to this which utilised Maynard tape primers and also a rotary magazine which was then copied in the Krag rifle.
The rifle is in excellent condition as can be seen, much original finish, no major problems with woodwork except the usual dings and pressure marks expected on a 150 year old rifle. The bolt action is as tight as the day it was made and the under hammer action is flawless.
This is one of only 900 rifles so there is a low survival rate particularly in this condition and is as an interesting rifle as one would ever wish to own.
The rifle will be supplied with an extensive and erudite article on the rifle which explains the development and use. Investment quality and a superb and interesting rifle!

Code: 50060