Here is an original Civil War ‘Burnside’ cavalry carbine specimen in excellent condition that was produced by the Burnside Rifle Co of Providence, Rhode Island in the last two years of the war.  This cavalry model .54 caliber, single-shot, percussion breech-loading carbine was one of some 43,000 such weapons manufactured by the company during 1863 and 1864. The weapon is a wonderful example of a veteran carbine of the war and employed the uniquely designed, tapered, copper Burnside cartridge.  

Carbine features a hinged center section that drops down when the inner latch in the triggerguard is activated that allows for quick insertion of the brass cartridge. The shoulder arm bears serial # 11788 and exhibits a dark, dusky plum gray patina on most metal surfaces with significant amount of the original bluing at the breechblock and tang.   Lockplate tang shows the maker’s marks “BURNSIDE RIFLE Co. / PROVIDENCE R. I.”  Lock markings are visible but thin. Clean clear maker’s mark “BURNSIDE’S PATENT / MODEL OF 1864” on the receiver at top of frame. Serial # is below. Numerous inspector marks found on the rear sight, operating lever, lever pin, lockplate tang, side receiver frame, triggerguard, and other components. Strong crisp mechanics.  Bore is fabulous and exhibits minty rifling. 

Walnut stock is original and in excellent condition with two sharp cartouches on the left side. Wood still has much of its original feathering effect to the surface. Stock exhibits just a handful of very shallow dings and scratches consistent with use and age. Never cleaned.  Fitted with a cavalry sling bar, carry ring, forend, barrel band and the single sling swivel at the base of the stock.  Carbine has the small guide screw in the center of the right side of frame that allowed a smooth operation of the breech when activated in the breechblock. 

Many Federal cavalry regiments were issued the Burnside carbine and spoke highly of its combat worthiness such as the 1^st Michigan, 5^th, 6^th, 7^th Ohio, 1^st New Jersey and the 3^rd, 14^th and 18^th Pennsylvania cavalry regiments.  An excellent Civil War ‘Burnside’ carbine. 

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