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 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 3/4", with a barrel length of 37 1/2". The patina of the iron hardware matches the barrel perfectly. The bore gages out at .59 caliber and is dark with light rust and pitting. The visible rifling is very faint. The barrel is stamped on the right flat with 4HCB5 and possibly the letter I just behind the rear sight. The right side of the barrel has the letter H inside a depressed square, and the alignment marks on the barrel and breech plug. The lockplate is stamped with 860 forward of the hammer, to indicate 1860, and the Austrian Eagle proof behind the hammer. All three barrel bands and the iron side plate all have the number 3 of the assembler. The barrel band retention springs are all present and undamaged. The rear sight base is still on the barrel, but the folding leaf with two windows graduated out to 900 yards is missing. The mechanics of the lock work perfectly, holding in half and full cock. The sling swivels are no longer with the rifle. The iron butt plate is secure to the stock and also stamped with the number 3. The ramrod is present and correct, having the brass belt and torque hole. The threads are missing on the other end of the ramrod. The stock is in good condition, having no major cracks or wood loss. It has a medium brown color that is very appealing to the eye. A correct bayonet came with this old war horse, and will remain with it. The bayonet has a patina that matches the barrel, with some traces of bright finish showing here and there. The right side of the shank has been stamped with an X, while the left side is stamped with the letter R and a depressed astrick. I believe this bayonet has been with the rifle for a long time. If you're looking for an honest Civil War survivor that has remained unmolested for the past 160 years this one is for you!

Item # AA2847

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