Guns International #: 103109668

Category - Military Rifles - US - Antique Rifles - Percussion

Category
Military Rifles - US
Antique Rifles - Percussion

Musketoon Length Model 1842 Harper's Ferry Musket

Description:
This is an interesting piece, but I make no specific claims as to its pedigree. The example I have might at first glance appear to be a cut down Model 1842 Harper's Ferry musket for civilian use. There are, however, features that suggest otherwise. This IS NOT an 1847 Artillery Musketoon.  Sling swivels all wrong.

First, it has a front barrel band from a Mississippi Rifle with front sight brazed on. Not something readily available to the average person. Second, the muzzle is expertly coned for easier loading. I have seen many cut down guns and they are generally crude by comparison. Why bother to search for a Mississippi Rifle band when what most civilians wanted was a shotgun or buck and ball weapon not really requiring a sling? This makes me think the piece was intended for military use. All modifications have a patina generally consistent with antiquity.

One possibility is that it was cut down in one of the Confederate arsenals for artillery os cavalry use. These arsenals had thousands of older weapons that had been transferred to state militias. I believe that if someone had faked this, it would have spurious CSA or unit markings.

Its overall condition is good. Metal on the 24" barrel has a brown patina finish. There is pitting in breech area. Newer nipple removed easily. Its .69 smoothbore has minor pitting consistent with antique military muskets from this era. Brass has aged mustard color. Stock is generally sound, with some small stress cracks in buttstock filled. Lock is tight and crisp.

This could bear more research and serve to fill a niche in ACW reenacting or, possibly, N-SSA smoothbore competition. Unsure about that last part. $950 + Shipping.


Price: $950.00