This is an 1863 rifle musket manufactured by the Springfield Armory of Massachusetts. This 1863 is a type I, having the split barrel bands retained by screws instead of the band retaining springs. The overall length of the weapon is 56" with a barrel length of 40". Traces of the national bright finish on the barrel show through the dull gray patina of the barrel. The bore has very good rifling with light rust throughout. The original two leaf rear sight is still present as well as the pinched front sight. The barrel proof markings of V/P/Eagle Head are very strong. The nipple is a modern replacement and the bolster looks to of the 1861 variety. It appears to have the clean out screw broken off, or possibly plugged. The lockplate and hammer have plenty of casehardening remaining. The lockplate is stamped with an eagle forward of the hammer and U.S./SPRINGFIELD ahead of the eagle. To the rear of the hammer is the date, 1863. The mechanics are sound, with the hammer locking up in half and full cock. The nose cap, trigger guard, barrel bands, sling swivel and butt plate all have a matching dark gray patina. All three barrel bands are stamped with a U, while the butt plate has the US stamped into it. Unfortunately the ramrod i missing in action. The stock shows heavy use with bumps and bruises from the nose cap to the butt plate, but with only minimal wood loss. There is a small section of wood along the right barrel channel just behind the front band approximately 2" long. The stock has been broken at the wrist and has a modern repair. The repair is well done and makes the stock very solid. On the bottom of the stock to the rear of the trigger guard are seven notches. There are three additional notches carved on the bottom behind the rear barrel band. Not 100 percent sure, but I don't think somebody was keeping track of squirrels! I have no doubt this one saw the elephant.

Item # AA943

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