Here is an original, 1864-dated Model 1861 .58 caliber “William Muir & Company Contract” percussion rifle-musket in very good condition overall. The musket was a product of Muir’s production facility in Windsor Locks, Connecticut circa 1863-64. The firm was one of some 25 major contractors during the Civil War and supplied the US government with 30,000 such longarms for the army. The single-shot muzzleloader retains a pleasing appearance and appears to have been cleaned lightly at one time. Barrel exhibits a pleasing medium gray / light plum patina overall with mild pinprick rusting scattered about the metal. Musket retains its original lockplate with the ‘standard eagle motif’ over ‘U.S’ to the right of the hammer and the date “1864” behind the hammer. Hammer is missing the hammer screw. Under bolster is “Wm MUIR & Co / WINDSOR LOCKS, CT.” in strong sharp stampings.

Musket has original stock, iron nipple, bolster screw, “C” shaped hammer, straight-shank ramrod with threaded tip, all barrel bands, sling hooks, and butt strap. Mechanics crisp and strong. Breech area near the nipple and bolster area reflects some heavier pitting from use but bolster is relatively smooth, not pocked. Original two-leaf rear sight and small brass blade front sight ret on the barrel. Black walnut stock is in excellent condition overall but it does appears to have been very lightly cleaned some time ago. Edges are lightly worn. Few dings and nicks are visible on the stock. Two light government cartouche visible on the flat opposite the hammer. Top flat of barrel breech area stamped “1864” with government proof marks “V / P / eagle head” visible on the left facet. Also visible are small inspector marks on left barrel facet and on other components. The musket’s original tulip-head steel ramrod retains its threaded tip. A very nice original Civil War contract longarm at a most reasonable price.

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