This is a contract Model 1861 rifled musket produced by the Providence Tool Company of Providence, Rhode Island. There were 70,000 rifles manufactured by this firm from 1862 through 1865. The rifle measures 56" overall, with a 40" barrel. The barrel is in good condition, having a good bore with worn rifling and scattered light pitting. The original .58 caliber barrel now gages out at .60 caliber. The national bright finish has now turned to a dull gray patina. The barrel has multiple stamps. On the left side neat the breech are the usual Springfield marks of V/P/Eagle head, and just below that on the barrel flat are the letters N.J. There is no date stamped on the barrel. On the bottom of the barrel by the breech plug the number 18 is stamped. The letters P and J.H.L are also stamped onto the bottom of the barrel. The bolster still has the clean out screw. The front sight doubles as a bayonet lug. The rear sight is the two leaf type, with sub inspector letters A on both leafs. The lockplate is stamped 1864 behind the hammer, and U Eagle Motif S/PROVIDENCE TOOL Co./PROVIDENCE R I forward of the hammer. The action is perfect, locking in half and full cock. The hammer snaps forward when the trigger is depressed. The patina of the lockplate matches that of the barrel, trigger guard, bands and butt plate. All three barrel bands are stamped with the letter U. The middle band retains the original front sling swivel, while the rear sling swivel is attached to the trigger guard bow. The butt plate is stamped with US and fits the stock perfectly. The ramrod is tulip shaped and is of the flared type. The walnut stock is very dark and has lots of little bumps and dings from lots of handling. There are no cracks or wood loss any where along the stock. The small initials of CJ are carved into the left side of the stock opposite the lockplate. There are no cartouches anywhere on the stock. This is an honest example of a Civil War firearm that was there and fired in anger.

Item # AA907

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