The Ballard  is a single-shot, breech loading firearm used late during the Civil War. The .44 caliber, percussion carbine was invented and patented by Charles H. Ballard of Worcester, Mass in November 1861.

Produced by the Ball & Williams Company of Worcester between 1862 and 1865, the rifle measures 45½” long overall with a single barrel band and has a two-piece, black walnut stock.  The part-octagonal and part-round barrel is 30 long with markings on the barrel read “BALL & WILLIAMS / Worcester, Mass.”. Serial number is stamped back of the rear sight and also on the barrel breech top facet. The Ballard carbine was produced by five different firms and it is estimated that a total of 24,000 were made. The Ball & Williams contract for 4,000 all went to the State of Kentucky.

Offered is serial number 7273, which is stamped on the barrel and breech. Block is also stamped 273.  All metal surfaces is a matching plum colored patina. Barrel markings are light but visible and Kentucky is strong. Walnut stock may have been slightly sanded and has a crack near the tang. Bore has areas of pitting but has rifling. Action is good. Crude carbine ring was added to the stock.

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