Developed by Simeon North of Middletown, Connecticut, the shortarm is the first in the long series of Hall carbine variations requested by the U.S. Ordnance Dept. to arm the army’s 2^nd Regiment of Dragoons for service on the western frontier.  It was the first carbine adopted by for general issue by any nation and the first shortarm fitted with the wicked-looking ‘rod-triangular’ bayonet.

This single-shot, smoothbore carbine measures 45” long with a 23 3/16” long round barrel chambered for a .52 caliber round. One of 6,135 produced for this US contract, the breechblock mechanism pivots upward for loading via a spur-type latch device that protrudes from the bottom of the stock just forward of the trigger. All barrel and furniture mountings are iron and show a light gray, cleaned coloring.  No original factory acid-browning visible. A small, blade front sight at the muzzle and an open, plain notch, rear sight sit atop the barrel. Top of breechblock is addressed with the standard five-line maker marking “U. S. / S. NORTH / MIDLtn. / CONN. / 1839.” Markings are clear but thin in areas.

All gunmetal has areas of light to moderate rust pitting and scuffing.  Barrel bore is smooth and dusty with light pitting. Would clean up the semi-bright. Black walnut full stock is 36” long and is in very good overall condition with just light dings and dents from age and normal use. Trigger guard plate has the finger ridges tang. Delivered without any cartouche marks. Barrel secured to stock via two iron bands held by two iron springs. No stock repairs visible. Entire stock exhibits a dark patina and appears to have been refinished at one time. The iron sling ring and stud is at the lower guard plate just above the compartment with the iron implement door. The compartment original held a screwdriver, a nipple wrench, and a wiper tip, all now missing.  The 24½” long rod bayonet in the bottom of the stock is held secure by the iron band supporter under the barrel’s muzzle, and was ahead of its time.

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