Frank Wesson Military Carbine, First Type in .44 Rimfire

This is an early 1st Type Frank Wesson Carbine in 44 Rimfire as used by both Federal and State troops fighting for the Union during the Civil War.  The US Ordnance Dept. purchased 151 carbines at $14.50 each.  Also, Kitteridge of Cincinnati, Ohio sold 760 carbines to the State of Indiana, 1366 to Kentucky and many more to Kansas and Missouri state units.  See Fladerman's Guide, 9th Edition Pgs 264-65. A total of approx. 4-5000 were built from 1859-1864.  This particular example is in the 2800 serial range.  Features:  Standard iron frame with 24" octagon barrel and military sights.  Chamber has no extractor and slotted barrel link is located on the right side.  Both features are correct for the early model.  Original front sling swivel is located beneath the barrel...rear swivel is missing.  Barrel is marked:

FRANK WESSON WORCESTER MASS PAT'D OCT 25 1859 & NOV 11 1862

Rear sight is graduated from 100, 250, and 500 yards.  Front sight is original and is literally serial-numbered to the gun.  

Overall condition grades to NRA Antique Good+ to Very Good.  Overall metal has turned to a smooth brown patina with fine edges, knurlings, and markings.  The hammer functions properly on both half and full cock notches with a clean unbroken rimfire firing pin.  Barrel locks tightly into frame with no wobble or play.  Bore is Excellent...still bright and shiny with very strong lands and grooves.  Stock is in good condition with what appears to be 50-60% original varnish.  Typical light nicks and dings associated with military handling.  The only flaws to note is a small hairline crack extending from the upper tang and upwards about 2" across the comb.  We nearly missed this but there appears to be two very small diamond shaped wood patches on each side of the wrist...which was probably used to cover up a nail or screw...which was what old-timers used to do in order to keep the wood tight against the tangs.  These little pieces of wood are pretty minor, almost invisible; so good that they nearly got past me.  All in all, a very respectable example of a scarce Civil War era Cavalry carbine.

Item# 9203

$1,395.00