This original longarm is a Springfield Armory, .69 caliber, rifled Model 1842, single-shot muzzleloader in very good condition. All iron surfaces have light pitting in areas and have been moderately cleaned. The 42” long round barrel wears a dusty gray sheen with mild peppery pitting overall. Rifling alteration of the original musket barrel bores was performed at both national armories between 1856 and 1859. The total quantity of these muskets that were rifled numbered just over 14,000 units. Slightly less than 10,000 of them were also fitted with a long range front rear sight. Remainder were issued without the sights as this specimen exhibits.

Rifled bore is strong and bright. Lockplate has a dull, light gray coloring and bears standard stampings of a spreadwinged eagle motif over a small “US” in front of hammer. Back of hammer is the maker’s address of “SPRING / FIELD / 1847.” Lockplate markings all sharp. Mechanics crisp. Proof marks “V / P/ Eaglehead” are strong with the barrel breech areas showing light cleaning. Nice clear date “1847” stamped on the barrel tang. Majority of components are stamped with small sub-inspector marks. Buttplate markings visible with small “US”. Black walnut full stock surface is dark and untouched; shows a number of light scratches, dings and scuff marks overall.

The M1842 musket has a number of important characteristics to include being the last smoothbore US arm made in .69 caliber, and the first US military weapon made at both national armories with fully interchangeable in parts. A very good, historic M1842 Springfield rifled musket.  [ra]

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