Here's an excellent, collector-grade M1841 Harper's Ferry Rifle. The 1841 has the distinction of being America's first rifled musket. Originally built for use during the Mexican War, these short rifles were nicknamed the "Mississippi Rifle" after they were issued to Mississippian troops under the command of Jefferson Davis during the Mexican War. The Mississippi Rifle was built by several different contractors including the Federal Arsenal of Harper's Ferry. Harper's Ferry built these rifles for nine years; between 1846 and 1855.
Originally built in .54 caliber, this particular Mississippi Rifle, along with thousands of others, was re-bored for .58 caliber for use during the Civil War. While a majority of altered Mississippi's also received new rear sights and saber type bayonet lugs during there arsenal-overhauls, there were some, like this one, that were simply re-bored to .58 cal and issued for general service. These rifles, especially Harper's Ferry M1841's, are generally considered to be altered by the Confederacy; as the CSA captured a large number of Harper's Ferry M1841s in 1861 and was also so hard-pressed for muskets at the beginning of the war, that many of their Mississippi rifles were only re-bored to .58 while "less neccessary" alterations were abandoned in the interest of delivering muskets to the front lines as quickly as possible.
This M1841 is all original with the exception of a reproduction nipple. The stock is in great shape with no cracks, chips, or splits. The lock panels are wonderfully crisp and the stock has a great patina; indicating that this musket was never sanded or refinished. There is also three JSK Harper's Ferry cartouches stamped on the lock panel and inside that patchbox; making this a true Harper's Ferry and not a parts gun.
The lock is in great shape with a nice; untouched patina. The lock is dated 1849 making this a relatively early production rifle. All the stamps are crisp and legible; including the Federal Eagle stamped under the bolster. The hammer holds solid on both full and half cock.
The barrel is in good shape. It is still full length with a nice patina that matches the lock. The .58 caliber rifled bore is in good condition with strong rifling and only a few areas of very minor, spotted pits. Both front and rear sights are original and unmodified; a rare feature for an original '41.
All the hardware is original and matching. All the brass components have a nice patina. The ramrod is full length and is original; although the head has been polished at some point.
This is a great Civil War-used Mississippi; made by the most desirable of all the Mississippi contractors; Harper's Ferry. Pick up this piece for your collection; it won't disappoint.
