Presented here is a Model 1863 “Zouave” rifle produced by the Remington arms firm of Ilion New York between 1862 and 1865. Of some 12,500 such firearms produced, this .58 caliber, single shot percussion muzzleloader is in excellent condition. The Remington longarm rated as one of the best made and designed military arms of the Civil War era even though the rifles were never issued to the troops.

This “US” marked Zouave rifle measures 49” long with a 33” barrel secured to a black walnut stock with two-barrel bands. Bore is dirty but has strong seven-groove rifling. Has very light possible pitting in one spot about a third of the way down from the muzzle. Barrel retains almost all of its original bluing with one scratch just forward of the lower barrel band. Lockplate has just a hint of case colors and is mostly dark. A two-leaf rear sight and a blade pinched front sight rest atop the barrel while a large bayonet lug is welded to the barrel’s right side to accommodate the Remington saber bayonet.

Top of barrel at breech is stamped with the proof marks of “US / VP” with eaglehead and inspector initials of “G.P.” Left facet of the barrel shows strong and clear inspector marks “STEEL / B.H.” and “F.H.” Top area of breech exhibits the date “1863” on the barrel tang. The marks located on top of the barrel are somewhat obscured by pitting from use. Those on the left facet are fine.

Lockplate exhibits a highly detailed spreadwinged eagle forward of the hammer with marks “REMINGTON’S / ILION, N.Y.” below and just forward of the eagle. “U.S.” is stamped directly below the eagle. Strong date “1863” behind the hammer. All furniture, including butt plate, trigger guard, barrel bands, nose cap, and patchbox, is uncleaned brass. Lower band may have been lightly cleaned long ago. Patchbox still has the spare nipple inside. All brass has acquired a pleasing light patina.

Walnut stock is excellent save for just a few light storage dings and dents. Wood edges are sharp and show little wear. Two, clear government cartouches rest on the flat opposite the hammer. Longarm has its original steel ramrod with the tulip head and threaded tip. Wood along ramrod channel has two old minor chips just forward of lower band. Steel swivel at the triggerguard and one at upper band. Mechanics are very crisp and strong. Original nipple present.

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!

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