Here is an original Civil War ‘Burnside’ cavalry carbine specimen in fair to good condition that was produced by the Burnside Rifle Co of Providence, Rhode Island in the last two years of the war. This cavalry model .54 caliber, single-shot, percussion breech-loading carbine was one of some 43,000 such weapons manufactured by the company during 1863 and 1864 and employed the uniquely designed, tapered, copper Burnside cartridge.  

The carbine is an example of a veteran carbine of the war. Features a hinged center receiver section that drops down when the inner latch in the triggerguard is activated that allows for quick insertion of the brass cartridge. No patent date marks visible on lever.  The shoulder arm bears serial #5245 and exhibits a dark gray colored, spotty patina on most metal surfaces with no original colors. Maker’s stamp “BURNSIDE’S PATENT / MODEL OF 1864” on the receiver at top of frame is thin. Barrel not cleaned and shows dark oxidation areas with salt and pepper spotting. Mechanics are strong and crisp. Bore has scattered rust oxidation. 

Walnut stock is original and in very good condition with two very strong cartouches on the left side. Stock appears to have not been cleaned and exhibits just a handful of shallow dings and dents consistent with use and age. Fitted with a cavalry sling bar, carry ring, forend and barrel band, the weapon also has the small guide screw in the center of the right side of frame. This screw allows a smooth operation of the breech activated in the breechblock. An original Civil War representative ‘Burnside’ carbine.  

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.