This is a Model 1854 Austrian Lorenz rifled musket used during the Civil War. The Lorenz rifled musket was one of the most imported long arms 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 51 3/4", with a barrel length of 36 1/2". The barrel has been shortened so that it is flush with the front sight. The patina of the iron hardware matches the barrel perfectly. The bore gages out at .56 caliber and is dark with visible rifling. The barrel has the oval stamp of FERD FRUWIRTH just forward of the alignment marks on the barrel and breech plug. The lockplate is stamped with 856 forward of the hammer, to indicate 1856, and the Austrian Eagle proof behind the hammer. All three barrel bands and the iron side plate all have the number 49 and the letter I or T of 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 work perfectly, holding in half and full cock. The sling swivels are still attached to the trigger guard and the middle barrel band. The iron butt plate is secure to the stock. The ramrod is present and correct, having the brass belt and torque hole. The threads are visible on the other end of the ramrod. This Lorenz also came out of New Mexico, the second one in a month. The stock is in good condition, having only one noticeable crack in the stock comb forward of the butt plate tang. 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 # AA1322

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