Here's an interesting short rifle. Here we have what appears to be a P1856 Short Rifle; modified with exclusion of the distinctive saber bayonet lug commonly found on the muzzles of British short rifle.
The P56 Short Rifle was adopted to use by mounted infantry, rifle corps (also known as skirmishers) and Line Sergeants. The idea was to give this units a shorter and more handy weapon compared to the P53, that would allow them more mobility in the field compared to regular infantry. The barrel of the new short rifle was shortened to 33", compared to the 40" barrel of the standard issue P1853 musket. However, a shorter barrel necessitated a longer bayonet, to even the odds against an enemy soldier armed with a standard length musket and bayonet. In response, the War Department approved a new saber bayonet to be issued with the short rifle; the only problem that arose was in devising an effective way to affix it to the barrel.
At first, a large bayonet lug was brazed to the side of the barrel; roughly 4" from the muzzle. However, concerns immediately arose over this type of attachment. For one, the heat required in brazing the bayonet lug could damage the barrel; or the joint could prove unreliable should inadequate heat be used, causing the bayonet lug to fail. Secondly, should the bayonet lug be securely attached to the barrel, concerns arose over the weight of the bayonet causing damage to the barrel became equally troubling. The ultimate result was to attach the bayonet lug to the front barrel band and redesignate the rifle the P1856 No. 2, or "bar-on-band" rifle as it has now become known to collectors. However, this begs the question, what became of the original P1856 rifles with brazed bayonet lugs - the rifles that were damaged in the field and brought the faulty bayonet lugs to the War Department in the first place?
It appears, that a majority of these rifle remained in general service, but evidence suggest that at least a few of these P1856 No. 1 rifles were sent back to arsenal for repair/modifcation. This particular rifle appears to be one such repaired P1856.
It has all the earmarks of a No. 1 P1856 rifle - brass furniture, pre-1860 dated lock, butt stock-mounted rear sling swivel, long rifle forearm, and 1100 yd graduated sight ladder. But what's missing is the bayonet lug, and about 2" of barrel length. It appears that this P1856 No. 1 was damaged and re-worked to accept a socket bayonet. The barrel was shortened to roughly 31" and standard socket bayonet front sight lug brazed to the barrel.
The stock also features two distinct stock roundels, meaning it was accepted into government service twice - once during its original issuance, and again after it was repaired/modified.
From a collector's stand point, this rifle is in great shape. The lock features great markings and has a solid half and full cock.
The stock is in great condition with some evidence of wear, but with no cracks of chips missing.
The barrel is in good condition with a nice sent of original sights and a good bore that features strong rifling and no major rust or pitting.
The furniture is all original, including the ram rod. Also included with this rifle is a reproduction sling.
This rare rifle is a great study piece and really fills the gaps in the British Short Rifle story. This is the first modified P1856 No. 1 short rifle we've seen, and we likely won't see to many more!
