This exceptional 8 Bore Rifled High-Art Jaeger Flintlock Rifle was custom built for me by renowned American gunsmith Jim Gefroh, who is no longer producing flintlock rifles. Jim specialized in large-bore hunting rifles suitable for game ranging from deer to elephant and was widely recognized for the quality and authenticity of his work.
The rifle also features the craftsmanship of Ron Scott, who completed much of the decorative metalwork and assembled the lock. The furniture is crafted entirely from solid sterling silver with extensive high-relief engraving, complemented by intricate gold and silver wire inlay, ebony accents, and an ivory star. The stock features finely executed relief carving, including a striking gargoyle with ivory fangs.
The lock was cast from an original Jaeger lock and fitted with a double-set trigger. Ron Scott also gold-lined the pan in the traditional manner found on the finest original rifles of the period. Two gold bands accent the breech, while both the breech and barrel are adorned with detailed relief engraving. Even the rear sight base is crafted from sterling silver, and the nose cap is fashioned from buffalo horn.
The swamped barrel, made by Ed Rayl, features slow Forsyth rifling designed for heavy powder charges and a round ball. The bore is coned to facilitate easier loading while maintaining excellent accuracy.
The stock is fashioned from a beautiful piece of European walnut, selected for both its figure and strength. The rifle has been fired only a few times beyond the maker's proof testing and remains in exceptional, near-new condition with minimal evidence of handling or use.
This rifle represents one of the finest examples of Jim Gefroh's work and may well be among the most elaborate Jaeger rifles he ever produced. The extensive use of sterling silver hardware, masterful engraving, traditional construction methods, and contributions from two highly respected craftsmen make this a truly unique muzzleloading rifle.