How do I determine the age of a Flintlock rifle?

Question

It's a family heirloom. The only printed words are: J Edmonds Warranted. The flintrock is still attached.

Answer 1

A collector, or find a Rifle Club that has members who own Flintlocks: i.e Recreationists clubs, Civil War rifle clubs.

Answer 2

You really need to talk to a qualified firearms appraiser.  I don't know for certain if he is still doing business or if he has completely retired, but Mr. Thad Scott at is very experienced is handling flintlock and other antique arms.  Try contacting him at:

Thad Scott Fine Guns

P.O. Box 412

505 Hwy 82 West

Indianola, MS 38751

662-887-5929

http://thadscott.com/

Doc  

Answer 3

Do a little internet research first. Then take it to a reputable firearms dealer, he or she would be able to help you. If they aren't able to help, they might be able to refer someone who could. Be aware of the gun dealer who says it isn't worth anything, then offers to buy it in the same breath.

Answer 4

That's a really tough one. There many individual gunsmiths throughout the American colonies and Europe who manufactured flintlock rifles. Most of these makers faded into obscurity eons and eons ago. Kind of like someone doing folk art in their garages today, more or less. About the best I can do is suggest some sites below. Contact some of the flintlock organizations (do a Google search for more) and they may be able to help. You can also try the Gunbroker and Auction Arms sites below and search antique gun categories for flintlock rifles. That will give you some ideas on value, assuming it's an original, and not a copy of something.

Answer 5

A lot of times, you can look up the serial number on the internet and find the answer, or find a gunsmith/gun dealer.  Sometimes, the Blue book of Gun Values will help.

Answer 6

have it carbon dated!

Answer 7

This is a very difficult thing to do.  Probably the best thing you can do is to take it to someone who is a qualified appraiser.  Go to your local gun store and ask if there is anyone in your area who is qualified to appraise the gun for you.  Greg Martin of Greg Martin Auctions offers a free appraisal service.  It is rather perfunctory but may be all you need.  He has two websites one is www.gmartin-auctions.com and the other is www.gregmartinauctions.com.  He specializes in antique guns and knows where of he speaks.

Answer 8

you check its teeth. No wait, that's a horse.  

Well, you should never look a gift horse in the mouth , as they say, so you should never  look down the barrel of  Flintrock rifle .