1878 Whitney-Burgess-Morse 45/70 Sporter

Rare 1878 Whitney-Burgess-Morse Third Model sporting lever-action rifle in 45/70 caliber. All original, S/N 1158 on lower tang and on (inner) top of floorplate. One of less than 2,000 manufactured in the period 1878-82. 28" octagonal barrel, serpentine-shaped lever, loading port on right side of receiver. Blued metal, walnut stocks, 9-round tubular magazine. Storage compartment in buttstock, covered by a sliding brass plate. Barrel marked ", Patented Oct 28th 1856". Upper tang marked "A. Burgess, Patented Jan. 7th 1873, Patented Oct. 19th 1875". About 85% condition. Bore is lightly frosted but is bright and has good rifling. Possible incipient crack in right side of forearm. Mechanically excelent. $3,695 plus $75 for shipping and insurance. Certified funds or credit cards; add 3% for CC's. Additional photos on request.