Step back into the annals of firearms history with the Remington Beals Sliding Action Rifle, a rare gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Crafted with precision between 1866 and 1872, this exceptional single shot rifle is one of only 800 ever made, making it a treasured artifact from a bygone era. Chambered in .32 Rimfire and featuring a 24-inch barrel, this rifle is an ode to the ingenuity of Remington’s first firearms designer, Fordyce Beals. Although this particular piece shows extensive signs of prior use, with its stock exhibiting a crack and visible wear, it remains a captivating representation of 19th-century firearms technology.
Despite its fair condition, this rifle retains its charm and historical significance, offering a brass and blued finish, dovetailed front sight, and an adjustable folding rear leaf sight. Its bore, though showing mild fouling and slight corrosion, still speaks of the journeys it has embarked upon. The hardwood stock, although worn, is a testament to its authentic vintage appeal. Included with this rifle is its original brass crescent buttplate, further cementing its place in history.
For those intrigued by the stories of yesteryear, this rifle is more than just a piece of metal; it's a narrative of innovation and the adventurous spirit of the 1860s. The Beals Sliding Action Rifle was designed during a time when breech loaders were a revolutionary concept, characterized by the sliding barrel mechanism that exposes the breech end. Although initially met with skepticism, the Beals rifle gained notoriety among sharpshooters, including the legendary Annie Oakley, whose own .32 caliber Beals was the only known factory engraved example. While its original popularity may have been limited due to the weak cartridges suited for small game and short ranges, today it stands as a rare collector's piece, appealing to those with an appreciation for historical craftsmanship and design.
Owning this rare Remington Beals Sliding Action Rifle not only allows you to possess a piece of history but also to become a custodian of the legacy of early American firearms innovation. This is an opportunity to connect with the past and own a rifle that holds tales of a period when the Wild West was being tamed and the art of shooting was an admired skill.