Seldom seen is in the collecting community is this British Pattern 1856 Sergeant's Model rifle in very excellent original condition. A handsome longarm, this original English short rifle is a maker-marked Pattern 1858 specimen in .577 caliber manufactured by the private arms firm of John Dickson & Son of Edinburgh, Scotland.

In most excellent condition, this single-shot, muzzleloading, five-grooved rifle measures a total length of 49" and features a 33" long barrel mated to a black walnut stock. The lockplate surface is dark gray and exhibits a mottled mild peppery look from scattered fine rust pitting. Lockplate edges are lightly double tooled. No original case colors remain. No lock markings back of the hammer but the plate exhibits the maker's mark of "JNO DICKSON & SON / EDINBURGH" displayed on the lockplate in front of the hammer. All letters are clear and crisp. Mechanics are tight and strong. Lockplate even retains the original nipple protector with its linked brass chain.

Barrel surface appears to never have been cleaned and wears a pleasing dark gray even patina. Has just few areas of very slight pinprick pitting to the surface. The export proof marks on the left side of barrel breech are strong and clear and exhibit three 'provisional proof mark's and two 'gauge marks' (25) for .577 caliber. Upper swivel is mounted to the upper barrel band while the lower swivel is fastened to the toe of the buttstock. All iron furniture including the buttplate, trigger guard, barrel bands and the distinct-shaped side screw washers. Traces of original bluing evident on the nose cap and barrel bands. Original knurled and slotted ramrod. Rear sight has a notched base with two leaves graduated at 100, 200, 300 and 400 yards.

Oiled black walnut stock is in excellent condition and exhibits a surface that is dark and uncleaned. No cracks visible in the stock but it does show numerous minor dings, dents and light scuffs from age and use. The main contractor has stamped its name "WATERSTON" on the underside of the butt stock near the tang. Russet leather sling measures 43" long and is looped through the upper sling swivel and tied with a leather tong on the swivel at the guard tang. Sling is strong and tight with no markings. This excellent condition, Enfield Pattern 1856 contractor marked Sergeant's Model rifle would make a fine collectible.

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