April 27-30, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/27/2021
W. Johnston 1862 and A.H. Rowe patent 1864 marked pivot breech carbine. This particular example was manufactured by William Muir & Co. of Windsor Locks Connecticut and is dated 1864 on the frame of the pivoting barrel section. There is an element of mystery to this carbine, as there were patents for three different carbines that closely resembled each other. The first was assigned to a William Johnston in May 1862, the second was issued nearly two years later and assigned to A.H. Rowe in April 1864, and eight months later the third patent was issued to Johnston in December 1864. This type of carbine was submitted to the Military Travis Board for trial in 1865 but not selected, which was probably a result of the conclusion of the Civil War. The patent holders probably had Muir manufacture several of these carbines but due to being rejected for further testing, it is believed that a dozen or less of these carbines were produced. 22" round barrel chambered in .44 RF complete with military carbine ladder sight and blade front. Two-piece walnut stock and forearm complete with pewter forearm cap and military buttplate. CONDITION: Good with almost all of the original blued finish turning to brown patina. Handling marks throughout and especially evident at breech. Trigger guard displays moderate pitting. Stock is good as repaired and cleaned. Repaired crack at wrist. Crosspin has been installed at wrist for strength. Action works appropriately when cycled by hand. Bore is bright with areas of heavy pitting throughout and well-defined three groove rifling. JLD
Manufacturer
W.M. Muir & Co.
Model
Pivot Breech Carbine