This is a Pattern 1853 Enfield rifle musket from the American Civil War. The overall length of this weapon is 56 1/4", with a barrel length of 40 1/4". This particular gun was manufactured by John Cook & Sons of Birmingham, England. The business started in 1839 in London and made barrels for the London trade. In 1855 the business moved to Birmingham and remained there until it closed in 1875. John T. Cook was a share holder in the Birmingham Small Arms Company. His son had a side business making stocks. The barrel of this Enfield has two stamps on the left barrel flat, the number 24 and crossed scepters. The 24 indicates a .58 caliber barrel while the crossed scepters with a crown at the top and the letter V at the bottom represent the Birmingham view mark. On the bottom of the barrel are several stamps including, J.Cook, T.T, 263 J.W and the number 33. The same number 33 is also stamped on the breech plug. The bore of the barrel is dark and pitted but still shows some rifling, gaging at .60 caliber. The front sight doubles as a bayonet lug, while the rear sight is the long range variety. The lockplate is stamped with a crown to the rear of the hammer and 1862/TOWER forward of the hammer. The action holds at half cock and full cock. On the back of the lockplate are the stamps of JW and J COOK. The patina of the lock matches the barrel and bands. Both iron sling swivels are present, as well as the correct ramrod. The nose cap, trigger guard and butt plate are brass and have a mellow golden patina. The butt plate has Roman numerals LXVI scratched into it. The stock is in good condition, but does have several stress cracks around the lock. On the bottom of the stock comb is the stamp JCOOK&SON. John Cook is known to have manufactured Enfield rifles purchased for use by the Confederacy. This one is in very good condition and will make a great addition to your Confederate Infantry weapons collection.

Item # AA909

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