This is a first year-of-production example of the standard rifle-musket of the Civil War, a Model 1861 Springfield (actually officially referred to during the Civil War as a Model 1855 with the modifications of 1861). With production starting at Springfield in July 1861, the pattern eliminated the Maynard tape priming system and the buttstock patch box. It eventually used a new rear sight. With the need for arms pressing, Springfield increased its work force, machinery, and started night shifts, managing to turn out some 33,000 of these new rifle-muskets by the end of 1861 and another 173,000 from January to December 1862.

This one is in classic attic condition showing no indication of having a screwdriver near it. It shows serious use, but the kind one loves to see. There are good edges to the wood, and a tight fit of wood to metal. All bands and their springs, and the swelled and threaded ramrod are correct and tightly in place. The rear sling swivel is intact but the swivel on the mid-band is broken off and a filed stump remains. The walnut stock has dark color with expected handling dings and scratches overall. The lock apron has good "care" worn look. The side flat has two light cartouches: an Eskine Allin "ESA" acceptance cartouche and a script finish inspector stamp above that that seems to be “GGB,” listed as George G. Bowe. This rifle was clearly saw combat and is well used. The breech shows heavy pitting from age and firing corrosive percussion caps. This has spilled over slightly to the upper lock plate around the lower edge of the bolster and on the barrel forward to the rear sight and back to the breech plug tang.

Nevertheless, the lock markings are very good, with a crisp 1861 date, "US" over "SPRINGFIELD" stamp, and a nice Springfield eagle. The barrel date of 1861 is not legible. The "V P" stamp is visible, the eagle head is not. The rear sight leaves are broken off; a small portion remains. Forward of the rear sight the metal is smooth with a deep brown patina. The mechanics function very well. The .58 caliber bore has rifling but is dirty and well worn. There is wood burn with minor loss behind the percussion cap. There are no breaks or repairs on the stock. This "untouched" rifle-musket has two sets of soldier's initials deeply carved in it. These, almost 2-inch-high letters, are "S,D" and "DF" it is pretty much a certainty these fellows were Confederates. If you want one that was "used hard and put away wet" this is for you. A great look!   [pe] [ph:L]

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