This musket is a Liège (Belgium) made gun, a copy of a French Model 1853 Rifle. Round barrel measures approximately 34 ¼”, is the standard (French) .708 caliber, and is rifled. Bore is clear with fine pitting, and good rifling. Long-range rear sight and blade front sight. Moderate pitting around the breech. Liege proof mark on left side of breech. Original bayonet lug was removed. One single barrel band and nose cap/band. Band springs used to hold barrel bands in place. Sling swivels attached on middle barrel band and at bottom of stock near butt plate. Typical back action lock with large hammer. Lock plate marked “T. TILKEN / LIEGE”. Complete original ramrod. Liege proof mark on butt plate tang. All gun metal has similar dark patina and wear except top of barrel which is somewhat brighter.  Mechanically strong.

Musket stock is in good condition. Original finish and untouched patina. No deep gouges in the wood; only a few dings. A clear cartouche on the stock.

Accompanying bayonet has “S & K” blade markings. Single edged, full-fullered blade measuring 22 ½” in length, 1 1/8” wide at base. Exhibits clean, medium bright patina. Iron cross guard. Cast brass ribbed grip, exhibiting mellow patina. Release mechanism functional. Comes with metal scabbard.

A reproduction bayonet lug come with this set. The previous owner acquired the part and never got around to having “sweated” back onto the gun barrel.

This is a very nice rifle, typical of European imports during the Civil War…with a bayonet!   [jet]

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