SPRINGFIELD MODEL 1861 RIFLE
Springfield percussion rifle, 40" barrel, 55 1/2" overall, firing a .58 caliber Minie ball, with three steel barrel bands secured by retention springs, and a period tulip-shaped ramrod. The lockplate is marked "U.S. Springfield" with a federal eagles, and is dated "1863" behind the hammer. The initials "U S" appear on the top of the metal butt plate. The right-hand side of the butt bears a group of ten impressions indicating that it was once decorated with brass tacks that have since been removed. These decorations were sometimes applied to weapons owned by Native Americans. The original leaf sight is present, although the 500-yard leaf is missing. The wood stock bears a fine dark patina overall, with some shrinkage and chipping near the muzzle. An approx. 1 3/4" sliver of wood is missing at the tang of the barrel, with another small gouge present near the third barrel band. The barrel bears an oxidized brown patina, with traces of bright finish visible beneath the barrel bands and under the stock. Noticeable pitting is present at the breech end of the barrel. The barrel is dark and thoroughly oxidized, with no rifling apparent. The trigger guard shares this brown patina, and the lock plate is a dark grey color. A more modern leather replacement sling has been fitted. An excellent, unaltered example of a classic Civil War rifle.