Here's an excellent, all correct M1861 Bridesbug musket in above average condition.
Like many issued muskets, this Bridesburg remains in absolutely fantastic condition. It is 100% percent correct, and the stamps and proof marks on the all the components are all of Trenton manufacture according to Hartzler, Yantz, and Whisker's book The U.S. Model 1861 Springfield Rifle-Musket.
The lock is in great shape with a perfect, untouched patina and good legible lock markings. The mechanics are perfect and the lock holds solid at both full and half cock.
The stock is well above average for a M1861. There are no chips or cracks anywhere and no burn-out behind the nipple. The cartouches are nice legible. The lock moldings are wonderfully crisp as the stock has never been sanded or cleaned. Affixed to the stock is a plaque denoting that this musket was once owned by a "Jacob John McKelvy"; a soldier in the 77th and 194th Pennsylvania Infantry Units.
The barrel is good with excellent stamps at the breech and a great, light patina. Both front and rear sights are intact and unmodified. The bore is good with sharp rifling and some scattered "frost pitting".
The furniture is all original and all matching. The front swivel is broken. The ramrod is full length.
This M1861 just screams Civil War history and would make for a great addition to any history buff's collection.
