This is a Model 1854 Austrian Lorenz rifled musket used during the Civil War. The Lorenz rifle musket was one of the most imported long arm of the war, second only to the British Enfield. Approximately 250,000 of them were imported by for use by the Union army. The Confederate army purchased another 100,000 for use, many of them going to equip the Army of Tennessee. It has an overall length of 52 1/2", with a barrel length of 37 1/2". The barrel has an untouched "attic" black patina. The all iron hardware matches the barrel perfectly. The bore gages out at .60 caliber, but there is "something" stuck about five inches from the muzzle in the barrel, most likely a bullet. The visible part of the bore is dark and rusty. There are no visible markings on the barrel or lock plate. All three barrel bands and the iron side plate all have the number 3 and another mark to identify the assembler. The barrel band retention springs are all present and undamaged. The rear sight is still on the barrel and is the folding leaf type with two windows graduated out to 900 yards. The mechanics of the lock still work, holding in half and full cock, but the spring is weak. The sling swivels are still attached to the trigger guard and the middle barrel band. The iron butt plate is secure to the stock, although the bottom screw seems to be stripped. The ramrod is present and correct, having the brass belt and torque hole. The threads are visible on the other end of the ramrod, but show a lot of wear. This Lorenz came out of an old frame house in New Mexico that belonged to the Lasaro family. Verbal history has it that their ancestor carried this weapon during the Civil War. There is only one match for a Lasaro on the Civil War database, for an F. Lasaro who served with Company D, 2nd Texas Infantry. This Texas unit was engaged at the battles of Shiloh, Second Battle of Corinth, Hatchie's Bridge, Snyder's Bluff and finally Vicksburg. Apparently Lasaro survived the war and returned home with his rifle, where it has remained in the family until now. The overall appearance of the gun puts it in that "attic black" condition that everyone loves to see. If you're looking for an honest Civil War survivor that has remained unmolested for the past 153 years this one is for you!

Item # AA1284

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