This is a Model 1847 Cavalry Musketoon produced at the Springfield Armory, Springfield, Massachusetts. Between 1848 and 1859 there were around 6,000 of these .69 caliber smoothbore percussion Musketoons produced. This little saddle cannon measures 41" overall, with a 26" barrel. The barrel is black with light rust and pitting from the barrel tang to the muzzle. The proof marks are not legible. The short lug under the muzzle where the captive ramrod was attached is still present. The original ramrod swivel was removed by the Army in the 1850's and replaced with a sleeved chain device. The bore is very dark with heavy rust and pitting. A wooden ramrod has been used to replaced the original. The lockplate is marked Spring/Field/1853 behind the hammer. The eagle forward of the hammer is no longer legible. The lockplate and hammer have that out of the barn grayish/black patina look. The mechanics are weak, but the hammer will hold in full cock and strike the original nipple when the trigger is depressed. The main spring is either weak, or likely broken. The iron saddle bar and ring are present and match the patina of the barrel. The brass barrel bands, trigger guard and butt plate have a deep bronze patina. The double strap front band has the front sight incorporated. These Musketoons were not originally equipped with a rear sight. Later less less than 400 had the barrels rifled and rear sights installed. This particular weapon was not one of that lot. The butt plate has the US stamped on the tang just forward of the top retaining screw. The stock has a deep brown, almost black appearance for the most part. The barrel channel edges are sharp as well as the area around the lockplate. Just forward of the butt plate on the right stock comb the wood is cracked. The crack runs from the butt plate tang forward about 1 3/4". The crack is shallow, mentioned for accuracy. There is also a small piece of wood missing at the butt plate tang on the right side. The bottom of the stock has three areas where the wood has holes, along the ramrod channel. This type of wear is usually attributed to saddle pommel wear. These musketoons were issued to dragoon regiments serving out west after the Mexican War. They saw plenty of service on the western plains, and were pressed into service once again during the Civil War. Confederate cavalry units were known to have used them. Their riggedness and simplicity gave them an advantage over the newer but more fragile carbines of the Civil War era. If you collect Cavalry weapons, or more particularly if you are a carbine collector, this one is a must have for your collection.

Item # AA988

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