This is a Model 1861, .58 caliber, percussion rifle musket in excellent condition. Produced by the Springfield Armory in Massachusetts, and repaired at a southern arsenal.

All gun metal on this rifle has matching wear and bright finish. A spread-winged eagle motif is stamped on lockplate between hammer and bolster. Under the bolster is clearly stamped, “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD”.  Behind the hammer is the date, “1862”. The 40” long barrel has the original two-leaf rear sight and small blade front sight. Barrel shows no surface pitting around the breech and bolster and the matching “1862” date is clearly visible. Proof marks “V / P / eaglehead” remain on left facet of the breech. Barrel bore is clear and bright with strong rifling. Screw heads are in fine shape. Butt plate bears a worn “US”.  Mechanics are crisp and strong. Swelled shank, tulip-head steel ramrod is original with threaded end. Barrel bands, sling swivels, etc. are all in very good, matching condition.

Black walnut full stock is in very good condition overall. Stock exhibits no inspector cartouche on the flat. There are no cracks and only a few of the usual dings and dents. Wood retains attractive original color and finish.

In all respects, this is a typical Springfield rifle. What makes this musket special are a couple of stamps in the wood stock.  On the underside, a “Z” is stamped in front of the trigger guard. Research has discovered that various letter stampings in this area denote weapons captured by the Confederates and repaired at one of their arsenals. A second stamp, of inspector’s initials, is found behind the trigger guard tang. This is atypical of Springfield-made arms, but expected of a musket that was captured, repaired and then inspected in the south.

A very good example of a northern musket, captured and reused by the Confederacy.  [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!