July 30th 2016 Premier Firearms Sale (20)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/30/2016
14" barrel in .20 smooth bore percussion caliber. This rifle began life as an 1863 dated U.S. Springfield contract musket that was period converted to an extremely short and effective large bore carbine. The barrel was shortened to 14" and is basically a brown patina with fine salt and pepper finish. Stock was shortened to 25-1/4". A barrel band has been installed with a crude metal forend cap and shortened ramrod. Lock is dated 1863 with American eagle. All that's left of the visible lock markings is "Co. ork". Lock and hammer are a brown patina, as is original trigger guard. The brass buttplate is stamped "46C" on top. Stock has seen use. Top comb has been removed with several gauges and hairlines cracks at left side of forend and right wrist. Has a homemade sling swivel attached with period leather sling and brass hook. Fine working condition. Smooth bore with no visible rifling. These altered and shortened U.S. rifles were very popular during the Civil War with Confederate cavalry, due to its short, lightweight nature combined with the big bore. All alterations on this carbine appear to be period to its use. Very colorful Civil War weapon.