This is a Model 1842 percussion musket produced at the Springfield 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 14,182 Model 42's were altered, having the barrels rifled. This Model 1842 is one of those rare one's having the barrel rifled. Still rarer, it is one of 4,000 that did not have a long range rear sight added. It measures 58" overall, with a 42" barrel. The barrel is still the original .69 caliber. The bore is dark and has moderate pitting, but the rifling is still good. The exterior of the barrel has an even light plum 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, P and V proof marks reading from breech to muzzle. The barrel tang is dated 1853. 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 SPRING/FIELD/1845 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 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 no wood loss or age cracks anywhere on the stock. There are no cartouches on the stock. A tulip head ramrod accompanies this musket. This old warhorse could have seen service in the Mexican War and the American Civil War. Here's a chance to own a nice example of an early and rare Springfield rifled musket that won't break the bank.

Item # AA1115

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