One of the most attractive U.S. martial arms, the Remington 1862 Contract Rifle (in Moller’s terminology) has been known for decades as the “Zouave,” a nickname that is hard to overcome. And, just to complicate the nomenclature, Flayderman calls it the Model 1863 Contract Rifle. They seem not to have been issued, but it is known Remington produced some 10,000 between 1862 and 1864, all of which we delivered to the government by early 1864. Designed with brass mounts, including a patch box, these clearly blended elements of the Harpers Ferry 1841 rifle as well as the 1855 series of arms in ramrod, nose cap, and caliber. The style of barrel bands, although made of brass, copied those used on the Model 1864 rifle muskets.

This one is in very good condition, appearing unfired and near factory new. The bore is excellent.

The barrel retains complete original blue and crisp markings including the V/P/eagle proof at left breech, the “STEEL” barrel stamp and barrel inspector initials on left flat, and “1863” date on the top breech. The bolster and nipple are crisp, with full color, showing the gun is likely unfired. The lock plate shows attractive original case coloring. The lock plate markings are crisp with “1863” behind the hammer, an eagle over “U.S.” forward of the hammer, and “REMINGTON’S / ILION, N.Y.” in front of that. Both sights are in place. Bayonet stud is in place on the right side of the muzzle.

All bands, springs, swivels, and ramrod are in place. The patch box shows the recess for a spare nipple, which is missing. Brass furniture shows mellow patina. A previous collector hand engraved their initials on the rear tang of the trigger guard; unfortunate, but does not detract.

The wood has a beautiful warm color, good finish, tight fit, good edges, with visible inspector stamps on the left flat. There are some dings and dents scattered overall. One area worth mentioning is the area between the nose cap and first barrel band. A series of nicks shows where someone struggled to get the barrel band off. The edges of the ramrod channel were shaved down also.

This is a very pretty example, in very good condition, of a Civil War rifle that always has a prominent place in a U.S. arms collection. [jet] [ph:L]

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