Original Belgian-Made Austrian M1854 Lorenz Percussion Short Rifle with Imitation British Markings Original Items

Original Item. Only One Available. The Lorenz Percussion Rifle adopted in 1854 was conceived by Lieutenant JOSEPH LORENZ of the Austrian Army. Vast quantities were ordered, which completely overwhelmed Austro-Hungarian production abilities, so great numbers were contracted to be made in Belgium. These would naturally be produced in the Belgian gunmaking city of Liège. Many of these then were converted to Wänzl Lorenz Breech-Loading Rifles, based on the system developed in 1867. This involved modification to the stock, and replacing the breech of the barrel.

At first glance, this rifle looks to have escaped alteration, however close inspection shows that this rifle was in fact made into a Wänzl, but then converted BACK into a percussion rifle. The stock wood removed was replaced, and a new percussion breech was grafted onto the barrel. We have seen several of these on the market, and the best explanation we can find is that these were intended for “second line” troops, or even trade to less advanced areas, where cartridges were in short supply. Percussion ammunition was much easier to deal with in those areas in terms of supply. Definitely a very interesting history!

All steel is polished and the short rifle comes complete with its brass-tipped iron Ram Rod and both sling swivels intact. The butt shows minimal wear, and the stock, made of Beech is totally sound, except for some small repairs near the breech. The metalwork has been polished, showing very little wear and surviving in a remarkably good overall condition. Just forward of the cap bolster is the Belgian “Tower of Liège” proof mark, the view stamp and inspector’s mark for firearms “Perron”. The bore of the 4-groove rifled barrel is quite nice, with clear lands and grooves, and minimal oxidation. The lack of powder burn around the cap nipple indicates that this short rifle saw little use after “un-conversion”, leaving it in great shape.

The most interesting feature of this splendid percussion rifle is that it’s lock bears FAUX British Markings of TOWER / 1863 with CROWN / V.R. on the lock plate tail. This is not and was never a BRITISH Rifle: these markings were put on to obfuscate the origin of the rifle to untrained eyes. Definitely an interesting research opportunity!

A scarce short rifle almost forgotten to history! Fully cleaned, revealing a true peach in just lovely condition ready to Display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: c.1863 – converted and then unconverted.
Caliber: .54
Cartridge Type: Cap and Ball
Overall Length: 30 Inches
Overall Length: 45 Inches
Action type: Percussion Lock
Feed System: Single Shot

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