Presented here is a very fine, seldom seen example of a breech loading, repeating .50 caliber rimfire Ball carbine that came late (May 1865) to service during the Civil War. Produced in Windsor, Vermont by Lamson & Company, the firm produced just 1,002 of these carbines under contract for the Federal government in 1864. They were delivered in May of 1865 and are generally considered a Civil War arm but they do not appear to have been issued or to have seen actual service. The 50-caliber, seven-shot repeating Ball carbine featured a breech side-loading mechanism that consisted of a lever / trigger guard combination that when pushed down, allowed the shooter to inject up to seven brass rimfire cartridges into the tubular magazine within the forend.

This original specimen features a 20½” long round barrel mated to a two-piece black walnut stock using two barrel bands. Carbine measures a total length of 37½”. Fitted with a sling bar and saddle ring on the left side of the breech frame.

Weapon has a period replaced folding rear sight that is longer than usually encountered, iron blade front sight and a slightly curved butt plate. The round barrel wears a semi-bright brown tinted patina and exhibits light pitting in the muzzle area along with some hints of the original blue. Bore is dark but has good rifling. Some pitting looks to be present about a third of the way down the bore.

Receiver wears a mottled salt and pepper mix with no case remaining. All stampings on the receiver are clear and sharp. Marker’s marks read, “E. G. LAMSON & CO. / WINDSOR. VT. / U.S. / BALLS PATENT. / JUNE 23, 1863 / MAR. 15. 1864.” Left side by the maker’s marks has a sliding lever for the magazine cut off which is a post-war addition.

Wood has acquired a few dings and dents and appears to have not been cleaned or refinished. No inspector stamps visible. Carbine exhibits crisp mechanics and frame screws show light wear.

This Ball Model carbine is an excellent representative cavalry weapon that would fit nicely into any Civil War arms display or military collection.  [ad]

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