#151 • Dreyse Needle Fire Double Rifle

Part of The Ray Howser Firearms Collection, 1931-2026 (timed auction by Lewis & Grant Auctions)

Starting at $300.00

Status: Available

Live bidding starts Nov 20, 2026 10:00 AM EST

55 caliber paper cartridge, 29" double Damascus barrels, S/N 1156. While the name Dreyse is immortalized on the battlefields of Europe as the architect of the Prussian bolt-action military rifle, his factory at Sömmerda achieved an even higher level of mechanical artistry when catering to the continental European nobility. This Dreyse Needle-Fire Double Rifle is a spectacular survivor of that class. Rather than a bolt-action layout, this side-by-side rifle utilizes a highly sophisticated slide-forward, side-swing action operated by a massive under-lever. Activating the lever cocked the internal needle-spring mechanisms and unlocked the breech, pivoting the barrels out to the side for effortless loading. Because it fired a specialized, entirely combustible paper cartridge, the gun required no extractors or ejectors—the entire casing went up in smoke, leaving the chambers perfectly clear for the next shots. Marked on top of the barrel on the rib "N. Dreyse Sommerda". Notched rear barrel sight and blade front sight.  Beautifully engraved under lever and triggerguard with a panel of a stag inlay in silver. Highly figured checkered walnut stock. with leather covered cheekpiece. The barrel retains most of the nice Damascus finish.  The stock has been refinish long ago, nicely done. The bores are exceptional, bright and shiny.