This Ballard carbine is a .44 caliber, rimfire, single shot, breechloading arm produced between 1862-1865. Ballard arms (rifles and carbines) were invented and patented by Charles H. Ballard of Worcester, Mass in November 1861. Early models did see service in the Civil War, especially with the State of Kentucky.

This Ballard carbine stamped with serial #4446 on the octagonal portion of the barrel and the frame has a 22” long barrel fitted with a two-piece, black walnut stock. Shoulder stock in good original condition with minor wear from use. A fine, 2 ½” crack runs back from the frame tang into the comb of the left side. Forestock shows similar light wear. Gun measures about 37 ½” in total length. Has the external cartridge extractor on underside, which still works well. Barrel has a dark gray/brown surface overall. Frame is equally dark brighter with spotty darker patches. Breech block and hammer remain in fine condition.

Markings on the top of barrel and frame feature the serial number and “BALL & WILLIAMS / WORSCESTER, MASS.” Marks on left side read “MERWIN & BRAY, AGT’S / NEW YORK.” Stamped on the right side is “BALLARD’S PATENT / NOV. 5, 1861.” No cartouches visible. There is a flip-up rear sight marked for 100, 250, and 500 yards at breech and blade sight at muzzle. Rifle mechanics strong and operate smoothly. Bore is clear with light pitting. Moderate rifling. two sling swivels. Screw heads in good shape.

A nice Ballard carbine.  [jet]

DISCLAIMER: All firearms are sold as collector's items only - we do not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any antique firearm. All firearms are described as accurately as possible, given the restraints of a catalog listing length. We want satisfied customers & often "under" describe the weapons. Any city or state regulations regarding owning antique firearms are the responsibility of the purchaser. All firearms are "mechanically perfect" unless noted, but again, are NOT warranted as safe to fire!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THIS ITEM, AS WITH ALL OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB SITE,

MAY BE PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LAYAWAY PROGRAM.

FOR OUR POLICIES AND TERMS,

CLICK ON ‘CONTACT US’ AT THE TOP OF ANY PAGE ON THE SITE,

THEN ON ‘LAYAWAY POLICY’.

THANK YOU!