Here's a great, honest Springfield M1861. The Springfield-produced M1861's are considered to be the "cream of the crop" by collectors as they were only produced by the Federal arsenal for two years before the adoption of the M1863. Because Springfield was a Federal arsenal, the M1861's it produced were considered to be the highest quality and thus it is generally believed that all Springfield M1861 were issued for combat during the war (rather than issued to garrison of rear echelon troops like many of the contractor models).
Like many issued muskets, this Springfield remains in absolutely fantastic condition. It is 100% percent correct, and the stamps and proof marks on the all the components are all of Springfield 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 Erskin S. Allin and Henry J. Hill cartouches are crisp and legible. The lock moldings are wonderfully crisp as the stock has never been sanded or cleaned.
The barrel is good with excellent stamps at the breech and a great untouched patina. Both front and rear sights are intact but the 500 yd leaf is missing from the rear sight. The bore is was reamed smooth and no rifling remains. It would be a good candidate for a reline.
The furniture is all original with the exception of a reproduction American-made ramrod. The front swivel is missing.
This M1861 just screams Civil War history and would make for a great addition to any history buff's collection.
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