In August of 1861 the company of Sarson & Roberts of New York contracted with the US Government to produce 25,000 arms. During the production process the company encountered unforeseen problems and struggled to meet their contract. They even went so far as to purchase locks and barrels, along with some other parts, from the government armory at Springfield. In the end they only delivered 5,643 weapons, making it among the rarest of the M1861 contractors.
This musket is all original from top to bottom and in excellent condition. The lock is in great shape with no pitting and great, legible markings. The lock functions flawlessly on both full and half cock.
The stock is in wonderful condition with excellent, crisp lock panels and no major dings or dents. There are also no cracks or rotten spots anywhere with the exception of a repaired split on the bottom of the forestock (see photos).
The barrel is in great shape. The breech stamps are all legible. Both front and rear sights are intact and unmodified. The bore is very good with great rifling and no rust or major pitting.
The hardware is all original and all matching, including the ram rod; which is full length.
This handsome musket would be a great choice for a collector.
