Synopsis:

This Peabody 1862 Military Style and Cartouched Rifle, is a breech-loading rifle patented in 1862, made circa 1866-1871, has a 33" blued rifled barrel, color case hardened action, and a cartouched walnut stock. Though never a U.S. issue weapon, many were cartouched, as this high condition example, only to be exported.

Description:

In 1862 Peabody patented a breech-loading rifle but was unable to perfect it in time to play a major role in the American Civil War (1861-1865). This rifle, made circa 1866-1871, was cartouched, on the stock, a recognized mark that was apparently applied for rifles and carbines earmarked for export. This example has a 33" blued rifled barrel with a fixed bayonet stud/blade front sight and a height adjustable rear sight notch graded 1-9. Color case hardened action, marked on the left side with a five line Peabody's patent and Providence Tool Co. address. Many components were marked with the letter "E", “U”, “S” or “H”. Fitted with a nearly full length walnut forearm with ramrod, secured with two barrel bands and a straight wrist stock that has the small oval "WC" cartouche on the left side and smooth, curved metal buttplate. ANTIQUE.

Condition:

VG+ original condition with the barrel retaining 97% of its original blue finish. The color case hardening of the receiver is dulled, especially on the right side that has been lightly cleaned as true for the forearm tip and both barrel bands. Muted but still attractive colors remain on the hammer and locking lever. Crisp walnut stocks with raised grain that show no evidence of cleaning. Mirror bright bore with sharp rifling. Correct manual mechanics. An high original condition example of a 1862 Peabody patent breech loading rifle that was purchased and held in high regard by a number of foreign governments, particularly the Swiss