This is a Model 1863 “Zouave” rifle produced by the Remington arms firm of Ilion New York between 1862 and 1865. Approximately 12,500 such rifles were produced and the pattern rates as one of the best made and designed military arms of the Civil War era even though the great majority were never issued to the troops.

The “Zouave” rifle measures 49” long with a 33” round barrel. This .58 caliber, single shot percussion muzzleloader has a bright bore with sharp rifling. Barrel is blued with a smooth surface with no evidence of pitting. A two-leaf rear sight and a blade front sight rest atop the barrel while a large bayo lug is welded to the right side for the saber bayonet. Barrel breech shows the strong proofmarks “V / P / eaglehead” in addition to the date “1863” on the top breech area. Left facet of the barrel shows sub-inspector marks “R.K.A” and “STEEL”.

The lock plate and hammer exhibit a smooth pewter color. The spread-winged eagle is under the bolster and “REMINGTON’S / U.S. ILION, N.Y.” under the eagle. The eagle stamp is somewhat light. Date “1863” is behind the hammer. Mechanics are crisp and strong.

Brass furniture includes the “US” marked butt plate, trigger guard, two barrel bands, nose cap, and a patch box. Brass exhibits mellow patina.

Walnut stock is in very good condition with only a few scratches on underside where brass adjustment hook from sling has rubbed. Two government cartouches on the flat opposite the hammer.

There are several small sub-inspector letter marks on metal parts. Original ramrod with tulip head and threaded tip shows scattered oxidation. Sling swivels, at the trigger guard and upper band, hold a leather shoulder sling in place.

A super nice original “Zouave” rifle.  [jet] [ph:L]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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!