A local friend asked for some help in identifying a rifle he recently came into his possession. He doesn’t know much about it other than what the previous owner told him…which wasn’t much either. He thinks it’s a German made piece, possibly from the 1800’s. It has a serial number: “17563”, the middle number is a bit hard to read. There are proof marks on the gun but no manufacturer’s mark. Photos are below. Clicking any of the pictures below will bring up a larger photo. If you recognize this weapon or can at least provide some hints, let us