This is a Model 1842 percussion musket produced at the Harpers Ferry Armory. The Model 1842 was the first regulation musket made at the Springfield and Harper's Ferry Armories with the percussion ignition system. This was the last smoothbore musket made in .69 caliber and the first weapon made at both National armories that was completely interchangeable parts wise. Between the years 1856 and 1859 several thousand Model 42's were altered, having the barrels rifled. This Model 1842 is in it's unaltered smoothbore original condition. It measures 58" overall, with a 42" barrel. The barrel is still the original .69 caliber. The bore is dark and has moderate pitting over the entire length of the barrel. The exterior of the barrel has an out of the attic black patina. It matches all the other iron components. This model didn't come with a rear sight, just a brass blade front sight on the double strap front barrel band. The barrel has the eagle head, V and P proof marks reading from breech to muzzle. On the left barrel flat a small letter S is stamped. The barrel tang is dated 1852. The bayonet lug is mounted on the bottom of the barrel. The exterior of the barrel is smooth with light pitting around the hammer area. The three barrel bands are present, along with the barrel band retaining springs. The front and rear sling swivels are still with the musket. The lockplate is marked HARPERS/FERRY/1851 behind the hammer with an eagle over the letters US forward of the hammer. The action on this weapon is very crisp. The hammer locks in half and full cock and snaps forward when the trigger is depressed. The trigger guard and US marked butt plate have the same dark patina as the rest of the gun. The stock is in it's original unsanded condition. There are the normal bumps and dings from handling. There is an area of the stock on the left side between the rear and middle barrel bands that has been gouged out. A small piece of wood is missing at the very reat of the lockplate. There are no cartouches on the stock. A steel button head ramrod accompanies this musket. While it was a little late to see service in the Mexican war it most likely saw service during the American Civil War. Here's a chance to own a nice example of an early Springfield musket that won't break the bank.

Item # AA996

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