Anyone recognize this rifle

[sta500rdr]

I visited my aunt today and she had this old rifle come into her antique shop recently. It looks like it was a 22 caliber black powder rifle judging by the condition of the bore. However there are no markings other than the serial numbers. All of the numbers match. But I can't figure out what it is. Any help would be great.

 

[jmr40]

I have a 20 ga shotgun that belonged to my great grandfather built on the same frame. It is a falling block design. Your's appears to have the markings obscured by rust.

The markings on mine are partially obscured but on the left of the receiver mine says

JM MARLIN NEW HAVEN CONN USA
PATENTED FEBRUARY 1875
BALLARD'S PATENT NOV. 5 186?

Comparing the photo's I'm certain the frame is the same. Apparently they used the frame to make a variety of guns, both rifle and shotgun

 

[Smith357]

Looks like a Ballard

http://cap-n-ball.com/ballard.htm

 

[mokin]

I can't help you with the identification, but the fit is wonderfull and even the finish looks pretty good for the age.

Both guns are beautiful.

 

[Gordon]

A Ballard or sure.

 

[sta500rdr]

Thanks guys!

 

[Jim Watson]

They are indeed Ballards which is a moderately famous old make and worth more than you might think. If you can get them noticed by the right people, they will be reincarnated as BPCR target rifles.

 

[45lcshooter]

What's the asking price???? Lol

 

[sta500rdr]

Yep. That's it! It's a ballard. Bore is ok. I can still see the rifling. It's not pitted too bad. Spring on the hammer is broken. For the most part it is complete. gotit for 75$. How did I do? I would love to make it shootable. It needs a few parts and some tlc.

 

[Cosmoline]

You did real good! I'd get a chamber cast on it. There were some obscure chamberings on those IIRC. I seem to remember some custom rounds made for the Ballard as well. Real tack-drivers.

 

[sta500rdr]

Looks like I am going to be starting a ballard resto thread.

 

[Jim Watson]

Accurate reproductions are made by Ballard Arms.
They sell parts, too.
http://www.ballardarms.com/parts_merchandise.shtml

 

[HowlinMadMartin]

I vote no refinish, it is way cooler with all that character and patina. Just get it up and running and enjoy it. Think of the conversations that could start from looking over such a fine old gun!

 

[TurtlePhish]

I vote no refinish, it is way cooler with all that character and patina.

+1, just take the surface rust off with oil and 0000 steel wool and shoot it!

 

[Ash]

I agree both on not refinishing it as well as getting a chamber cast. There were Ballard calibers that are not compatible with current ammo.