Remington Rolling Block Rifle Circa 1870

This is an interesting rifle that needs additional research. From studying George Layman's excellent book on the subject I believe it formed part of the Greek/Venezuelan contract that ended up in France during the Franco Prussian War. I have not cast the chamber but can see that it is not 43 Spanish calibre which is a shouldered case as this chamber is a straight case so it is either 43 Reformado or 42 Russian Berdan. Each cartridge fits the barrel but the smaller Russian bullet is less accurate.
For an excellent and erudite article on the 43 Spanish rolling block see the article by David Thombs and Stephen Barrett in the Journal of Historical Breechloading Smallarms Association Volume 4 no 4.
The rifle has a small crown stamped into the rear of the barrel near the knox and a small "H" on the left hand side of the receiver. There is also a barely discernible "H" scratched into the wrist of the butt. The mechanical action of the rifle is strong and the bore has very strong rifling with minor pitting. There is overall light surface pitting as can be seen from the photographs on the bands, sight and receiver but the rifle still looks attractive and the barrel surfaces are clean and the rifle is fully functional. The tang has the USA Remington patent dates and there are no cracks or repairs in the wood. it is what it is which is a military rifle 140 years old that has no doubt been in several conflicts around the world.
This rifle really needs some further research.

Code: 50272