This is a Model 1855 rifle manufactured at the Harper's Ferry Armory during the Civil War era. The Model 1855 rifle musket was produced at both the Springfield Armory and the Harper's Ferry Armory from 1857 through 1861. Approximately 60,000 of these weapons, in 5 different variations, were produced between the two armories. This particular variant of the Model 1855 is known as the Harper's Ferry Model 1855 rifle. It is the two band version with all iron hardware. The overall length of the weapon is 49", with a barrel length of 33". All iron components had the "National Bright" finish. This one came into the shop with no history other than it had been in the family for many years. It was reportedly recovered in northern Georgia along a creek, and at some point the original stock had been swapped out. This one has definitely spent some time near the water, if not in it. The 33" barrel had the bright finish, but now has a dark brown appearance with moderate pitting along the entire surface. The barrel proof marks or date are no longer visible. As expected the bore is dark and rusty, but the three groove rifling is still visible! The later model two leaf rear sight is installed 3" forward of the breech. These rifles were intended to be used with a saber bayonet, but this barrel never received a bayonet lug. The lock plate is dated 1861 behind the hammer and stamped US/HARPERS FERRY forward of the hammer. The Maynard magazine cover has an eagle motif stamped on it. The date stamp is legible, the US/HARPERS FERRY stamp is a little hard to make out, but visible. The Maynard priming system is intact and still functions perfectly! The two iron barrel bands, trigger guard, patch box, sling swivels and butt plate all have the same dark brown patina. A swelled shaft tulip head ramrod comes with this rifle. The butt plate is stamped US. Scratched into the inside of the patchbox cover is the name J D Bryant. A quick check on the database shows about a dozen Confederates from all over the south with that name, even more Yankees. The replacement stock is in good condition and has an oval cartouche on the left flat opposite the lock plate. Whoever had the stock replaced thought enough to hang onto the old stock. It also has an oval cartouche on the left stock flat. The stock has broken in a couple of places and been glued together at the end of the barrel channel. The fore arm is broken, but is still with the old stock. While it may be in relic condition, this is a complete and functional rifle that is very uncommon and highly collectible. All the 1861 dated Model 1855 rifles were made at the Harper's Ferry Armory, which was captured early in the early days of the war by the Confederate Army. The machinery and tooling was removed and shipped south and the armory itself set on fire. According to Claude Fuller's book, "The Rifled Musket", approximately 420 of the 1861 dated Harper's Ferry rifles were produced before the capture of the armory. Here's an opportunity to own a rare Civil War rifle at a reduced price!

Item # AA1039

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