3123

Fine Smith's Patent Breech Loading Civil War Carbine

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,400.00 USD Estimated At:2,750.00 - 3,750.00 USD
Fine Smith's Patent Breech Loading Civil War Carbine
Buyer's Premium is 19.5% by credit card, reduced to 17% if payment is made by cash, check or wire transfer. Contact Rock Island Auction Company to complete your registration with the auction house.
The Smith carbine was manufactured by the Massachusetts Arms Co., Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts and was one of the most important Federal Cavalry carbines. Designed by Gilbert Smith, the production of this breech loading percussion carbine was almost entirely consumed by government contracts, with limited numbers going to the civilian market. A total of 30,362 Smith carbines were purchased by the United States during the Civil War. Smith carbines were considered to be accurate and reliable weapons. Left side of the frame has the two line Smith's patent date marking, three line Poultney & Trimble address and "MANUFACTURED BY / AM N.MCHN. WKS / SPRINGFIELD MASS" marking. The left side of the barrel has the inspector initials "LFR" and the left wrist has a clear "JH" cartouche. Dovetail brass blade front sight and folding leaf rear sight absent of yard markings. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip walnut stock with a steel buttplate.
BBL: 21 5/8 inch part octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 50 percussion
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 11376
Condition: Very fine plus. The receiver and hammer retain 85% strong and vibrant case colors. The carbine retains 90% original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. The trigger guard has minor shallow pin prick pitting and a few patches of minor pitting. The stock rates excellent plus with an aged feather grain and showing only minor storage marks. The cartouches excellent; crisp, sharp, and clear. Mechanically sound.