Civil War Era Lee Sporting Rifle 1641

Item: Lee's Fire Arms Co. Single-Shot Breech-Loading Heavy Rifle
Manufacturer: Lee's Fire Arms Co., Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Production Period: Circa 1863
Serial Number: 1641
Caliber: .44 Rimfire
Overall Length: Approximately 46 inches (estimated based on the 30-inch barrel and typical stock proportions for sporting rifles of the era)
Barrel Length: 30 inches (as confirmed)
Weight: Approximately 7–8 pounds (estimated, reflecting the heavier barrel of the "heavy rifle version")

Description:
This is an exceptionally rare single-shot, breech-loading sporting rifle produced by Lee's Fire Arms Co. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, during the American Civil War. The rifle bears the markings "LEE'S FIRE ARMS CO. MILWAUKEE, WIS. PAT. JULY 22, 1862 No. 2004" on the receiver, with the confirmed serial number "1643" stamped separately alongside it, indicating its manufacture around 1863. This example is believed to be a "heavy rifle version," distinguished by its robust 30-inch octagonal barrel, likely designed for enhanced accuracy and durability in long-range shooting or hunting larger game. Lee's Fire Arms Co. was a short-lived venture by James Paris Lee, who later gained fame for designing the Lee-Enfield rifle, making this firearm a significant piece of history in the evolution of his career and 19th-century firearms design.

The rifle features a pivot-block breech mechanism, allowing for the loading of a .44 rimfire cartridge—a popular technology during the Civil War era, well-suited for civilian use in hunting or target shooting. The 30-inch octagonal barrel, characteristic of the heavy rifle version, provides improved stability and heat dissipation, making it ideal for precise shooting at extended ranges. The action is operated by a lever that doubles as the trigger guard, with the breechblock pivoting downward to open the chamber for loading. The trigger guard is a simple, rounded metal design, consistent with the utilitarian style of mid-19th-century firearms, and the external hammer shows a worn but functional surface.

The stock is crafted from straight-grained walnut, exhibiting a warm patina with moderate scratches, dings, and wear consistent with its age. The stock design is straight with a slight curve at the butt, featuring a crescent-shaped metal buttplate typical for sporting rifles of the era, and shows no significant cracks or repairs. The metal components, including the barrel, receiver, and trigger guard, display a natural patina with areas of light surface rust and pitting, as expected for a firearm over 160 years old. The markings on the receiver remain legible, with the unique double number stampings—serial number 1643 and the additional "No. 2004"—adding to the rifle’s historical intrigue. The pivot-block mechanism appears functional, with the breechblock moving smoothly to open and close the chamber.

Historical Significance:
Lee's Fire Arms Co. operated from 1862 to 1865, producing a small number of firearms primarily for civilian use during the Civil War. While not adopted by military forces, these rifles represent an early example of breech-loading technology and the innovative work of James Paris Lee. The "heavy rifle version" designation, supported by the 30-inch barrel, suggests this rifle was tailored for shooters demanding enhanced accuracy and power, possibly for long-range target shooting or hunting larger game. The double number stampings—serial number 1643 and the additional "No. 2004"—are a unique feature, potentially indicating a batch number for a production run of heavy rifles, though it may also reflect a factory error corrected by the addition of the correct serial number. The rarity of surviving examples from this short-lived company, combined with the rifle’s unique markings, makes this firearm a valuable artifact for collectors of Civil War-era firearms or those interested in the history of American firearms design.

Condition:
The rifle is in fair to good overall condition for its age, with an estimated condition rating of 65%. The wood stock retains much of its original finish, with moderate wear and no major damage, contributing to a solid structural integrity. The metal components show light to moderate surface rust and pitting, particularly on the barrel and receiver, but remain functional with no significant corrosion that would impair operation. The bore has been inspected and is in great condition, exhibiting strong rifling with minimal pitting, a testament to the rifle’s careful maintenance over its 160-year history. The rifle has not been refinished or overly cleaned, preserving its historical patina and authenticity, which is highly desirable to collectors.

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