In May of 1860 the U.S. Ordnance Board had decided to change the standard issue infantry arm from the current Model 1855 rifle, which used the Maynard Automatic Priming system as its source of ignition,  to a new model rifle that would eliminate that system and incorporate a better and more reliable way to ignite the powder. The reason for this change was the Maynard system’s primer tapes were becoming infamous for being unreliable in the field and especially during  inclement weather or wet conditions in general. The solution to these issues were to go back to the simple and plain percussion lock mechanism of previous Models. And on February 20th, 1861, saw the birth of the most iconic and well known infantry arm used during the American Civil War. The .58 Cal. Model 1861 Springfield Rifled Musket!
The Model 1861 was the principal issued arm for the U.S. army during the American Civil War and was in active service from 1861-1865, and was originally produced at the United States Armory and Arsenal in Springfield, Massachusetts. From mid-1861 to the end of 1863, the Springfield Armory produced 265,129 Model 1861 rifles at the price of $15 per rifle, but to meet the demands of war, increased their production by issuing out contracts to 20 other companies and firms who could meet the demand. And by the end of 1865 over 1,000,000 Model 1861 rifles were produced for Military service and private civilians.
The rifle had a walnut stock, Iron mountings, spring retained barrel bands and a flip-up leaf sight finished in both “Armory Bright” and “Blued”. Its barrel was a 40” long round barrel finished in “Armory Bright” with an overall length of 56”. It weighed approximately 9lbs, fired a .58 Cal. Minié ball, had an effect range of 400-500 yards on a man sized target and a maximum firing range of 900-1000 yards.
Our rifle being offered, is a wonderful 1862 dated Springfield Arsenal produced U.S. Model 1861 Rifled Musket. It has been in the hands of a private collector for the past 20-30 years and is “fresh” to the market. The rifle is 100% complete, retaining all of its original parts and is in Fine Condition All metal surfaces have very little to no pitting, crisp markings, a clean bore, and a tight working action. It also has initials carved in various places within the walnut stock giving it a perfect personal touch. Both the lock plate and barrel are stamped 1862 for the year produced. The Lock is stamped “U.S./Springfield” in two lines forward of the hammer, as well as, the spread-winged American eagle. The proof marks “V,P”, and an “eagle” of the Springfield arsenal are stamped on the left flat portion of the barrel. And a “US” stamped in the tang of the butt stock. This is a desirable arm of both gun and civil war collectors, and it being in such a beautiful condition wont last long! If you would like more info or photos please contact us!