Help ID this rifle please.

[Shooey]

Hello friends, I'd like to know what you can tell me about this rifle. If this is the wrong section of the forum please let me know...
It is a full-stocked percussion rifle with a bore of about .32 or .38 caliber. The bore looks octagonal. The markings on the top flat say LEPPERT BY and then AJ in a different font. If I posted the pics correctly, the first three photos are in order from left to right. It also says LUTZ on the side flat near the lock. The lock screws appear to be replacements.

I'd love to hear what you think about this old gun, thank you very much for your help.
SHOOEY!

 

[Shooey]

Isn't a full stock percussion rifle fairly rare? What school would this rifle be from, with that crescent buttplate and square cheekpiece? Why are there two names on the barrel, Lutz and Leppert? Did the gunsmith buy a barrel and then make a rifle? Your thoughts are welcome, thank you!!
SHOOEY!

 

[Grenadier1758]

Full stock percussion rifles are not rare.

The rifle was probably made for BY Leppert. (?)His son AJ had his initials added when he inherited the rifle.(?) Pure speculation of course.

Lutz probably made the rifle. Have you removed the barrel to look for markings on the bottom flat?

The lock appears to be a commercial lock sold to builders.

 

[nhmoose]

Sellers American Gunsmiths lists 3 PA barrel makers of that period.
Lutz, C&S Beamstown
Lutz, Daniel Z. Rienholdsville
Lutz, Jesse Rienholdsville \

Same book has no listing for Leppert as a maker so it may be the owner.

 

[Dave Marsh]

The lock plate almost looks like it has an outline of where a pan might have been?? I am by no means an expert but it is possible it was a flintlock when it was made. Don't know the years the Lutz's made barrels. Just my two cents worth.

Dave

 

[nhmoose]

All of the Lutz listed were making barrels in 1850 early 1860