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Documented U.S. Navy Lee Model 1879 Bolt Action Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:475.00 USD Estimated At:950.00 - 1,400.00 USD
Documented U.S. Navy Lee Model 1879 Bolt Action Rifle
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This rifle was one of the 700 Model 1879 Rifles that were delivered to the Navy by October 1884 (a copy of a Navy memo listing Lee rifle purchases is included). The upper left receiver flat is stamped with the two line Lee Arms address/patent date marking followed by the serial number. The left side of the barrel at the breech is stamped "P/WMF/[anchor]". The magazine catch has a sub-inspector Henry Nettleton "HN" marking. The rear sight has a base which is graduated to 500 yards and a leaf graduated to 1,200 yards. There is a factory cut-out on the left side of the stock. This is a common feature with Navy inspected rifles of this period because these rifles were factory converted to the Lee-Cook sliding detent magazine. "U" marked barrel bands with the front band having stacking and sling swivels. Mounted on a smooth straight grip stock correctly without stampings.
BBL: 29 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 45-70
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 593
Condition: Good as refurbished. The rifle retains traces of blue finish in the protected areas with the balance a mottled gray patina showing a few areas of minor pitting. The refinished stock is good with a few minor handling marks and a hairline crack near the forend cap.