And now for something a bit different...

[len s]

This rifle came into a local gun shop a while back. I expressed interest in it at that time but the shop's owner said he'd be keeping it for his collection. Last week he called me to say it was mine if I wanted it. It's a New Model Spencer rifle made in 1868 I think. It's in ok shape with a bit of the exterior case hardening still on the receiver and an excellent bore. It has Japanese kanji engraved on the receiver which I'm told read "#140 Meiji 27 (1894) Saga Prefecture". The rifle might have originally entered Japan to arm the forces of the Emperor Meiji during the Boshin War of 1868-69 fought against the Tokugawa Shogun. Later it migrated to Saga prefecture possibly to arm police or paramilitaries. Certainly something you don't see every day. Here are some pics.

[Wagriff]

Certainly a true statement-that is,indeed, something abit different! Somehow, they all come home in the end, hey? A fine rifle, fit for anyone's collection.

[Walkwolf]

I agree - It is a Nice piece. Do you plan on shooting it.........?

[Thanatos]

An outstanding piece with a most interesting history.
Cheers for posting it. Very enjoyable

Dave