c. 1880 German Zimmerstutzen 4 mm Parlor Rifle, Heavy Octagon Barrel, Double Set Triggers, Side-Lever Breech
This unmarked German Schützen-style Zimmerstutzen parlor rifle dates to around 1880 and is chambered in 4 mm Zimmerstutzen. It features a heavy octagonal barrel, a side-lever breech with an external right-side hammer, and classic double set triggers. Walnut furniture with a pronounced cheekrest, engraved steel fittings, and Schützen buttplate details add period-correct character for collectors of antique target rifles.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Poor - Noticeable dirt, stains, significant corrosion or damage.
Bore Rifling: Poor Rifling - Rifling heavily worn or filled with fouling or debris.
Specific Condition Notes: Shows markings from previous handling and use. The action does not function correctly. It will require gunsmithing and a proper loading piece before use. Please refer to the photos for a close look at the metal, wood, and fittings.
What’s Included
- German Zimmerstutzen 4 mm single-shot parlor rifle
This rifle is a traditional German Zimmerstutzen designed for indoor or parlor target shooting. It uses a single-shot, side-lever breech system with an external right-side hammer, paired with double set triggers for refined let-off. The configuration reflects late-19th-century Schützen practice and aesthetics.
The heavy octagonal steel barrel presents the classic target profile. Based on visual assessment, the barrel appears much longer than the listed 7 inches; re-measurement is advised. The muzzle face shows three small holes around the bore. Sighting equipment consists of a barrel-mounted open rear sight and a small blade front sight, with no tang or diopter sight observed.
The trigger arrangement features double set triggers with a scroll-form finger spur, giving the shooter a crisp, adjustable release typical of period target rifles. The rifle is chambered for 4 mm Zimmerstutzen and has a 1-round capacity.
The walnut stock displays a pronounced cheekrest and checkering at the wrist and forend. A steel Schützen buttplate with a curled toe and turned finial anchors the shoulder. Decorative elements include an oval escutcheon in the forend and a leaf-shaped inlay with a circular medallion on the right side of the butt. Sling attachment points are located under the butt and barrel.
Light scroll/floral engraving appears on the sidelock, with fine line engraving on the Schützen buttplate and an engraved guard. No maker’s name or proofmarks are legible in the provided images, consistent with some period workshop production. Country of origin is Germany, circa 1880, and the piece is classified as an antique and collectible.