US Civil War Era, British Pattern 1853 Rifle, Tower 1863

Original period manufacture. Full stock, 3 band rifle in .577 caliber. Introduced by Great Britain prior to the Crimean War. These rifles saw widespread service in the American Civil War 1861-1865, with over 900,000 imported during those years. Primarily used by the Confederacy, but also by some Union units as well. Our example was made by Tower in 1863, and is clearly marked as so on the lock plate, which also displays the Queen's Crown proof to the rear of the hammer screw. Overall, the rifle is in sound original condition, nice screw head slots throughout. The stock has a nice even patina, lustrous finish, no chips or cracks, just the typical minor service related dings and dents. The metal was cleaned long ago showing an even patina finish to the surfaces. The area around the muzzle is a little brighter due to the action of a bayonet being placed on the barrel. Lots of rifling remain inside the barrel, and can easily be felt by inserting your fingertip into the muzzle and giving it a twist. The lock operates as it should, holding on the half cock, with what looks to be an original nipple. Brass buttplate, nosecap and trigger guard, with an original ramrod in the channel below the barrel. The ramrod is threaded on the end, dropping it into the barrel, which results in a pleasing ring, letting us know that the weapon is not loaded. Comes with a nice quality reproduction of a proper pattern leather rifle sling. US SALES ONLY.