Johann PeterLongo, .22K-Hornet- PRE 1897, 10/10 BORE

This is an original Johann Peterlongo Pre 1897 .22 break action rifle, engraved on its rib with the early ‘Johann Peterlongo Innsbruck’ address. Johann established his business around 1854. The company did business under the name ‘Johann Peterlongo’ until his death in 1898, the company was then re-titled ‘Tiroler Waffenfabrik Peterlongo’ (later guns are so marked) under the ownership of Richard Mahrholdt (died 1949) and was to remain in his family through two World Wars until finally closing its doors in the 1970’s. The guns built by the Peterlongo concern were highly developed firearms built to the highest specifications and have been held in high esteem throughout Europe for well over a century. The fact that this rifle is over 126 years old AT LEAST and still retains 99% factory case color and 99% bluing is extraordinary and epitomizes the care that was given to this firearm in over a century of use! This example is serial number 3 and has its original action and barrel, it was updated and re-proofed for .22 Hornet in 1931. Since then, it has been professionally re-chambered for the mighty .22 K-Hornet. The 25” barrel is half octagon with a perfect 10 out of 10 bore and 99% bluing. The barrel has a matted rib along its octagon portion and is engraved with the legend ‘Johann Peterlongo, Innsbruck’- this marking was only in use up to 1898. The barrel has a ramped front sight, a single folding rear leaf blade and a Spot Shot 7/8″ R.A. Litschert Scope mounted. The action has crisp hand engraved scroll decoration and an adjustable set trigger that is a joy to use. The operating lever retains 98% of its original factory case color, and all mechanics of this gun are in top working condition with a tight lock up, on this example the safety is pushed forward for safe. The furniture is European Walnut showing light figure with some fiddleback across the comb and excellent hand cut checkering. The stock features a cheekpiece, a schanbel forend tip and a horn buttplate. This unique rifle is offered as a package including loading dies, 50 rounds of ready to use ammunition  (this loading- 40gr bullet, 12.3gr IMR 1680 powder with a small rifle primer).  Bullets and Vintage Firearms Inc fireformed brass cases, 38 of which have a primer and 50 that are ready for de-priming. Targets from our test firing are also included. Ammunition will be shipped separately and can go directly to your home address (if permissible). A shipping charge will be added, please call to discuss. What a neat break action gun made in the days when craftsmanship was held to the highest standards. Just a joy to shoot, and firing a fast-moving varmint round, useful too! Thanks for looking!