Tschinke Wheellock Rifle for Comment

[Matchlock]

Hi Rick,

That's exaktly what it is: An early 18th c. dubious 'wheellock' rifle mounted with a mid to late-17th c. Tschinke lock. The trigger and trigger guard are of late 18th c. form and do not belong either. I'm afraid it's a crudely composite piece which in no way can be called a 'Tschinke' ... Honestly, I wouldn' touch it!

In order to make sure what characteristic Silesian (Teschen, Polish) Tschinkes look like I posted a few images.

Please note the typical shapes of the butt stock and the lock mechanism! The one in the bottom image is a rare Italian version with two wheellock mechanisms on the same lockplate, for firing superimposed loads!

Best,
Michael

[rickystl]

Hi Michael.

I think you nailed it!! Obviously it is NOT a Tschinke rifle. The three Tschinke's I've held have stocks that are exactly like the ones in the photos you posted here (although not nearly in as good condition as the photos). Thanks for posting these.
Yes, the trigger and guard never looked right. And the "adjustable" trigger??
As you say, I'm sure this is a later made piece. Still, it will be interesting to see the additional photos. I'll let him know what he really owns. (It's OK. He is a nice guy
One thing this gun does show is how long the wheellock remained popular in Europen civilian hunting circles. Too bad it's an abstract. Thanks Michael. I'll post the additional photos when I receive them. I just remembered........there's a local gun show this weekend. I might see him there? Rick.

[rickystl]

Hi Michael!! I've been away from the Forum for about a month now. Just been very busy. Also caught a cold/virus - TWICE - in one month. Also, having computor problems. Looks like a new lap-top is in my near future.
I've been trying to catch up on all the wonderful threads you've posted and the breath taking photos of matchlocks, etc. Thanks for posting - and the education!!
Meantime, my collector friend finally sent me some extra photos. I still need to convience him to let me take some photos. I'll keep trying.
As previously discussed, this is a later hunting rifle. While an abstract, it looks good. Very nice, even patina. Thanks for looking. Glad to be back. Rick.

p.s. Just for fun, the last photo is a "sample" of his 400+ collection of antique German Mettlack beer steins. LOL

[Matchlock]

Hi Rick,

The stock is an inadeqate 19th c. or later reproduction of a wheellock stock, the mounts are crudely assembled parts from 18th to 19th c. flintlock and percussion guns, the barrel seems to be from the late 17th or 18th c. and should be rifled.
The lock, from what I can tell by these images, looks like good Tschinke lock indeed at first sight. It should be taken out though and controled whether the internal mechanism is complete and original.

Best,
Michael

[Matchlock]

This is one of the extremely rare original Tschinke flasks retaining its ball pouch, Poland, mid-17th c. Prices for an item like this can easily exceed 10,000 USD and more.

Best,
Michael