Russ Prittchard's book
The English Connection lists Joseph Wilson as, "one of the most important and influential Birmingham gun makers." He was one of the founding members of the Birmingham Small Arms Trade and he was a shareholder in the Birmingham Small Arms Company. He provided weapons to both the Union and the Confederacy and his name can be found stamped on the belly of the stocks of the guns he built.
This particular Enfield is a fine example of a one of Mr. Wilson's Enfields. The stock is in fantastic condition with only a few handling marks and no cracks, chips, or rotten spots. All the edges are crisp and sharp, and the stock retains all of its original markings, including a wonderfully clear BSAT roundel, and JOSEPH WILSON's name stamped neatly into the the bottom of the stock.
The lock is in great shape. The plate is marked "1862 TOWER"; the same markings found on a majority of Civil War-imported Enfields. The lock's mechanics are excellent and the hammer holds perfectly on both full and half cock.
The barrel is in good shape and is still full length. Their is some minor pitting near the bolster but the Birmingham proof marks are still present and legible. Both front and rear sights are intact and functional. The bore is weak with very faint rifling.
The hardware is all original with the exception of an American-made, reproduction ramrod. An original nipple protect is attached to the rear swivel.
This musket is the ideal collector-grade Enfield as it show a lot of use, but no abuse. This handsome rifle would make a wonderful addition to anyone's Civil War Collection.
