A very fine August Browning percussion .42 caliber target rifle from the Shelton collection, and illustrated in Mr. Shelton’s book, California Gunsmiths. The rifle has “A. BROWNING SAN FRANCISCO” stamped on the top of the barrel. The mounts are very ornate German silver, with the butt plate having an exceptionally long curl to the lower point. There is a German silver mount for a palm rest in front of the trigger guard. The rifle has “globe sights,” with a disc mounted on the breech behind a very long adjustable sight, a hooded front sight, and a very large front sight. There is a knurled band just behind the muzzle, and the muzzle is round, while the rest of the barrel is octagonal. The wood is fairly plain, although there is a band of very deep checkering at the wrist and a finely carved cheek rest. The lock is single screw and unmarked. The forend cap is pewter. August Browning was born in Hanover, Germany, and became a naturalized American citizen in San Francisco in 1859. He was in business as a gunsmith in 1867 with Alois Schneider until 1870, when he struck out on his own. He became partners with William Heber in 1873, so this was most likely manufactured between 1870 and 1873. Size: 50 ¼ inches long overall, with a 31 ¾ inch barrel. Processing and shipping within the continental U.S $85 plus a 1.5% replacement cost insurance fee. Discounts given on combined lot shipping. Condition: Very good overall, with a crisp action. There is a tiny amount of pitting by the bolster, and a small crack opposite the lock. There are two dents on the underside of the forend.