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100a

U.S. Model 1816 .69 Caliber Musket

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:25.00 USD Estimated At:1,200.00 - 1,850.00 USD
U.S. Model 1816 .69 Caliber Musket
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For your bidding pleasure is a U.S. Model 1816 Musket, .69 caliber with matching manufacture date of 1827 on the lock plate and barrel. This was the standard U.S. issue weapon manufactured from 1816-1840. They were originally made as flintlock ignition with 42” round barrels. In the 1840s when percussion ignition replaced flintlock, these muskets were recalled and converted to percussion before being re-issued to troops. The Model 1816 was made by Springfield Armory, Harpers Ferry Armory and by a number of independent arms manufacturers who were placed on contract to produce these fine arms for the U. S. Government. One of the most famous and trusted of these manufacturers was A. Waters of Millbury, Massachusetts who supplied 36,560 Model 1816 Muskets to the U. S. Government from 1817-1836. The rear of the lock plate on this example is clearly stamped with the date “1827” under “MILLBURY” with the center of the lock plate stamped “U.S.” over “A. WATERS.” The upper tang behind the hammer is clearly stamped “1827” along with inspector stamps on the rear of the barrel. Importantly, the left side of the stock opposite the lock plate retains a clear inspector cartouche in an oval stamped in the wood. The top of the steel butt plate is stamped “U.S.” The Model 1816 .69 caliber Musket had a long and interesting service history as the standard weapon of the United States from very early frontier days, the Mexican War, and on through the Civil War. New information has come to light and presented in the book “ARMING THE WEST: A Fresh Look at the Guns that were Actually Carried on the Frontier, Myth-busting details from the Western shipping records of firearms sales giant Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, 1868-1886.” In this interesting book are records of hundreds of muskets purchased as surplus by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham located in New York and resold to Western dealers throughout the frontier. These inexpensive arms (compared to Sharps, Winchesters etc.) were used by settlers, miners, and frontiersmen well into the cartridge era. Loaded with a heavy .69 caliber ball or bullet, these muskets were capable of downing the largest game in the West. Loaded with buckshot, they became formidable defensive weapons. And loaded with smaller shot. They were capable of taking small game and fowl for table fare! A good portion of muskets were shortened and “sporterized” which greatly reduces their desirability. This one is all original and unaltered. Many covered wagons heading to the Promised Land housed a percussion Model 1816 Musket loaded and ready for action! Interestingly, when received, this example which recently turned up in Arizona was found to be fully loaded with a healthy charge of black powder, ancient wadding and shot! (It has been safely removed!). The stock on this Model 1816 is in fine condition showing only normal handling. The lock and hammer function perfectly with strong springs and solid cocking notches. All metal surfaces are smooth, uncleaned and now display a wonderful 192 year old aged patina. The only pitting on the barrel is centered around the percussion nipple which is typical of black powder residue which would accumulate in this area- to most collectors this adds great character and is an indication that this historical musket was actually heavily used and not merely stored away for decades in some arsenal. A truly remarkable, historical firearm boasting both military significance and frontier service. This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.
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