This is a very fine condition original Model 1866 US breechloading rifle with the Allin Conversion, a.k.a. the Second Model Allin “Trapdoor”. At one time, this longarm was entirely sealed with what appears to be varnish that has protected the wood and all gunmetal to this day. Still covered with the dry coating, the entire stock is excellent with sharp edges. A fine strong cartouche is stamped on the left side behind the lockplate screws. In 1866, the Springfield Armory altered existing M1863 percussion muskets to a .50 caliber, centerfire rifle and employed the distinctive ‘trapdoor’ breechblock loading system. The 2^nd Model differed from the First Model by using a longer bolt, a firing pin spring and a stronger internal extraction system that dispensed with the rack and pinion type. Some 25,000 M1863 muskets were altered by the armory in 1866.

Breechblock is stamped “1866” over an eagle’s head at the hinge. Lockplate marked in front of hammer with spreadwinged eagle and “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD” and “1865” behind the hammer. Lockplate and hammer exhibit a dull brown / gray color. Breechblock retains its original ‘blacking’ under the varnish. Rifle’s lined barrel measures 40” long with a bore that shows clean, strong three-groove rifling. Barrel exhibits a dark plum brown coloring. Has its original rear sight. Has three-barrel bands with band springs. Steel ramrod has the ribbed and slotted head that screws into the base. All metal surfaces show no pitting or oxidation. Mechanics crisp. Rifle bore is clean, strong and bright.

The walnut stock exhibits a rich, dark coloring with scattered minor dings, dents and nicks as normal with age and use. All mountings standard including the swivels at the upper band and triggerguard. Regulation front sight blade. Bayonet is the Model 1855 angular socket bayo that is stamped “US / J” and wears a similar dark brown coloring as the rest of the weapon. Locking ring has a replaced screw. Overall, this Second Allin musket alteration to rifle would likely clean to very good or excellent if the old varnish was carefully removed. A very fine M1866 Allin 2^nd Model conversion trapdoor rifle.

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!