Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle 1861 Tower Lock
Item #: AA4101
Click on an image to enlarge
This is a Pattern 1853 Enfield type III rifle musket from the American Civil War. The overall length of this weapon is 55", with a barrel length of 39". This particular gun was manufactured by the Birmingham maker Tower. The exterior of the barrel is relatively smooth, and at some point has been painted black. The surface of the barrel that is exposed shows a medium plum to brown patina. The bore of the barrel is turning dark with light pitting and surface rust throughout. There is still some visible rifling showing. The proof marks are still legible, reading from the breech are a crown over script BP, the number 25 is not visible, crossed scepters with a crown in the top and the letter V in the bottom, the number 25 and crossed scepters with a crown in the top and the letters BPC in the other quadrants. These indicate the Birmingham Provisional Proof, caliber .577, The Birmingham viewers mark, caliber .577 and the Birmingham Proof House mark respectively. This old long gun did some shooting in it's time, as a bore gage now shows it at .63 caliber. The original front sight is still present, but has been altered to present a narrow sight along the top. The rear sight is missing in action. The lock plate is stamped with a crown to the rear of the hammer and 1861/TOWER forward of the hammer. The action functions normally, the hammer holds at half cock and full cock. The patina of the lock matches the barrel bands. Both sling swivels and the front barrel band are missing, but the ramrod is present. The ramrod is quite interesting, as it is an authentic piece that has been modified by having a drill bit machined onto it at the threaded end. The nose cap, trigger guard and butt plate are brass, and all having a matching golden patina. The stock is in good condition, having no major stress cracks or wood loss. The right side of the stock comb looks like it could have been hit by a spent projectile. The barrel and ramrod channels are still pretty crisp and sharp. There are no visible stamps or cartouches to be found on the stock. The stock shows a nice medium brown walnut color. With this early date of 1861 this Enfield could have been imported by the Confederacy or the Union. No matter who used it, it's a nice example of the most imported longarm of the war.
Shipping Weight:
9 lbs
Your Price $995.00 USD
We are currently not accepting on-line orders. If you see something you would like give us a call.