Guns International #: 102555883

Category - Springfield Rifles - Antique - Civil War Rifles

Category
Springfield Rifles - Antique
Civil War Rifles

Springfield U.S. M1863 .58 Rifled Musket

Description:
The Model 1863 was only a minor improvement over the Springfield Model 1861. As such, it is sometimes classified as just a variant of the Model 1861. The Model 1861, with all of its variants, was the most commonly used longarm in the American Civil War, with over 700,000 manufactured. The Model 1863 also has the distinction of being the last muzzle-loading longarm produced by the Springfield Armory.
The Model 1863 was produced in two variants. The Type I eliminated the band springs and replaced the flat barrel bands with oval clamping bands. It also featured a new ramrod, a case-hardened lock, a new hammer, and a redesigned bolster (percussion chamber). Several of these modifications were based upon Colt's contract Model 1861, known as the "Colt special". 273,265 Type I variants were manufactured in 1863.
The Type II is sometimes referred to as the Model 1864, but is more commonly referred to as just a variant of the Model 1863. This version re-introduced band springs, replaced the clamping bands with solid oval bands, and replaced the three leaf rear sight with single leaf sight. A total of 255,040 of these were manufactured from 1864 to 1865.

This rifle is from a private collection.  It shows very well for its age and is one of the best I have seen.  Please see all photos for proof marks.  There is one cartouche on the left wrist of the stock that is very faint and hard to read. The bore is in good shape with visible rifling.  The barrel measures 40" from muzzle crown to stock.  Strong action in hammer and trigger.  Rear site is three leaf type.  The nipple is clear and original with Springfield eagle clearly visable.   
 

SOLD

Antique: Yes
Manufacturer: Springfield
Model: 1863
Barrel Length: 40
Condition: very good