Collectible Antique Longarms for sale (pre-1899)
NOTE: THE ITEMS BELOW ARE "ANTIQUES" AND NO NOT REQUIRE A FFL FOR SHIPMENT.

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**NEW ADDITION** 15646 RARE U.S. MODEL 1892 KRAG- UNMODIFIED! - Serial number 3140. The Model 1892 Krag is a significant milestone in U.S. Army small arms development. It is the first standard bolt action rifle, the first small bore, and the first smokeless powder rifle adopted for U.S. forces. While some features of foreign arms had been included in prior designs, this was the first (and only) U.S. military rifle adopted which was basically a completely foreign design. (Some would argue that the Charleville/M1795 and Mauser/M1903 would also qualify.) The model 1892 Krag rifle in original configuration is an EXTREME rarity on the collector market. Probably fewer than a hundred (maybe closer to 50) are in private collections today. Nearly all were recalled and updated to M1896 configuration. It is indeed a lucky collector who can brag that they own one. This is one which escaped the later upgrade to Model 1896 with filling of the cleaning rod channel, and alteration to a bolt stop, muzzle, buttplate, and other upgrades. This one has correct matching serial number 3140 on the sideplate and loading gate, a feature found only on very early production guns. (Two other internal magazine parts should be numbered as well but we did not disassemble to confirm them.) This retains the original square muzzle, straight buttplate with oval head screw and no trap, the cleaning rod channel, upper band with guide for the rod, and even the original cleaning rod! Some very minor restoration work has been done: The rear sight was a later model and the handguard was missing, so we added a correct original M1892 sight and handguard. The missing stacking swivel has been replaced (although a fanatical expert would point out that the swivel tips should be flat instead of rounded). The bolt assembly had gotten switched with one from a M1896 at some point in the past, and we have replaced it with a correct M1892 bolt body, bolt sleeve and safety. The cocking piece lacks the square back found only on the M1892 and the extractor has been modified to remove the stop pin so it looks like a M1892 although it is not quite correct, and the firing pin has the small fillet instead of a square corner. Not big deals, but we want people to know exactly what is right (or not) so there are no surprises. The walnut stock is solid, free from the common Krag cracks along the bottom of the magazine, between the magazine and bolt or behind the tang. Stock was sanded or scraped long ago and has a yuccky old coat of varnish or oil on it (and slopped onto some of the metal parts) that should strip off and look a lot better with a rubbed in coat of stock finish. Remnants of faint cartouche (JSA 1894) and circle P are visible. Assorted minor dings and bruises, but the only significant one is ahead of the lower band on the left side. The handguard has an old crack through the forward section. Metal parts are free from pitting except for a small amount on the buttplate. Blued finish has mostly turned to plum or patina and will look better after a thorough cleaning and removal of accumulated crud and oil/varnish. Receiver and action parts are a blotchy steel gray mixed with staining and some patina. Receiver finish is consistent all the way to the front of the receiver ring, exposed with the M1892 handguard, but not the later ones. Bore is a bit dark and rough with strong rifling, typical of many Krag bores and may clean to good, but no guarantee. These rifles rarely turn up on the market unless one comes out of a collector’s estate. We have had two or three restored examples over the years, but this is the first time we have offered an essentially complete and correct one. $3950.00 (View Picture)

**NEW ADDITION** 15598 U.S. Model 1816 .69 calber musket- percussion conversion, cut down - Made by Eli Whitney in 1833 in his armory in New Haven, CT, as a standard .69 caliber flintlock Model 1816 musket. This was later converted to percussion, probably during the late 1850s, and undoubtedly was used during the Civil War. It was eventually cut down to a barrel length of 30.5 inches and the upper band moved back. This is a length favored for Confederate cavalry use, but also a handy size for farmers shooting hogs at slaughter time, so you can believe whichever use you like, but my bet is on the farmers. Overall this is a well used musket that has mostly brown patina mixed with moderate rusting and pitting (especially the buttplate and around the nipple area. A good representative “Civil War gun” that would look great in an old house over the fireplace, but not a really expensive collector prize. Whitney is best known as the inventor of the cotton gin, but his quest for interchangeable parts in arms manufacture is at least as important, although it was not fully achieved until the Hall rifles and the Model 1842 muskets for U.S. military use. Whitney died in 1825, and his heirs continued to use the E. Whitney name for many years, with his son engaged in arms making well into the 1880s. Mechanical condition seems to be okay, but lock screws are rusted in place, so we cannot verify is any internal parts have defects. Bore is rusty and dark, but not badly pitted. Nipple is clear. An inexpensive original and “old looking” Civil War musket. $525.00 (View Picture)

**HOLD** 15594 RUSSIAN/FINNISH MODEL MODEL 39 MOSIN-NAGANT RIFLE (7.65x54mmR caliber) ANTIQUE - Serial number 251823 assembled by SAKO in 1944 on a Russian receiver made by Tula in 1897. This design was adopted in 1939 as the Finnish “Infantry Rifle Model 1939” and became the preferred rifle for use during World War II as the Finns fought the Russians, eventually losing in 1944. These used a mix of newly made parts and reworked parts from earlier Mosin Nagants which had been purchased or captured by the Finns. The M39 features entirely new sights, better barrels, two sets of sling swivels a two piece finger jointed stock, and the improved two piece magazine stop. This example was made by SAKO (the Finnish Civil Guard Arms & Machine-show Company) in an unpronounceable place). Good bore with strong rifling, but worn and somewhat dark. Reportedly these are excellent shooters. (Reminder: we sell all guns as collector items only and they must be approved by a competent gunsmith prior to firing.) Very little of the original blue finish (or arsenal refinish on the salvaged parts) remains. Bolt number is matching, but as with most of these, the other parts numbers are totally mismatched. Stock is good with the assorted minor dings and scars of an issued military arm. Overall an inexpensive representative example of a Mosin Nagant that actually looks different from most of the other variations. Since the receiver was made in 1897, this is officially an antique and can be shipped direct with no need for a FFL. $250.00 (View Picture)

**NEW ADDITION** 15574 SHARPS & HANKINS MODEL 1862 CIVIL WAR NAVY CARBINE (WITH ORIGINAL LEATHER COVER!) - Serial number 11579. Nominally a .52 caliber gun, these were made for use with the “Number 56 Sharps & Hankins cartridge” although later production was altered slightly to allow use with Spencer ammunition (and I think this one is in that category). This ingenious design came from Christian Sharps, the inventor of the “Sharps” rifles, and also the cute little four barrel derringers. The latter were based on the same concept as the Sharps & Hankins carbines, with the barrel sliding forward on receiver rails to allow loading from the breech, then being slid back into position and locked for firing. Although the U.S. Army ordered 200 of this model in 1865, the big buyer was the Navy which ordered some 6,686 in 1862. They served throughout the Civil War and for a number of years afterwards, until replaced by the Remington rolling blocks. The Navy version included a leather cover over the barrel, missing on about 80% of the guns we have seen. Theoretically, the leather would protect the barrel from salt water exposure, but in reality it seems to have collected the salt under the leather, rotting the leather and pitting the metal. The leather was sewn into a tube type shape to slip over the barrel, and then secured in place by a steel band around the barrel at the muzzle and two screws at the breech end of the barrel. Cover is in generally very good condition, with tight stitching, showing assorted scuffs and scars but little cracking or flaking. The “flap” at the bottom rear is torn for about an inch on both sides, but still stays in position and this section is often missing on the few examples with partial covers remaining. Another clever design feature is the safety which is a flat strip along the left side of the frame by the hammer. When the hammer is at half cock, the safety can be pushed up, and will block the hammer from fully striking the firing pin. When the hammer is fully cocked it automatically disengages the safety. Excellent bore is rifled with six grooves, sharp and bright although in need of a good cleaning. Walnut buttstock was cleaned long ago, and has assorted dings and scars of an issued martial arm. Metal parts were case hardened when made and now are basically a dull steel gray mixed with thin patina in places and showing signs of a gentle cleaning long ago. No real rust or pitting anywhere. Good mechanics, including the often broken catch for the lever. Rear sight seems to be missing a flat spring that holds it in adjusted position. A well above average representative example of a clever Civil War carbine, and one of Christian Sharps least known inventions. Having the original leather cover makes it much more desirable than most lacking the leather. Antique, no FFL needed. $2650.00 (View Picture)

**NEW ADDITION** 15570 RUSSIAN/FINNISH MODEL MODEL 39 MOSIN-NAGANT RIFLE (7.65x54mmR caliber) ANTIQUE - Serial number 62193 assembled by VKT in 1944 on a Russian receiver made by Ishevsk in 1895. This design was adopted in 1939 as the Finnish “Infantry Rifle Model 1939” and became the preferred rifle for use during World War II as the Finns fought the Russians, eventually losing in 1944. These used a mix of newly made parts and reworked parts from earlier Mosin Nagants which had been purchased or captured by the Finns. The M39 features entirely new sights, better barrels, two sets of sling swivels a two piece finger jointed stock, and the improved two piece magazine stop. This example was made by VKT (the Finnish State Rifle Factory as an unpronounceable place). Excellent bore, and reportedly these are excellent shooters. (Reminder: we sell all guns as collector items only and they must be approved by a competent gunsmith prior to firing.) About 80-90% of the original blue finish (or arsenal refinish on the salvaged parts) remains. As with most of these the numbers are totally mismatched. Stock is mostly excellent with a few assorted dings but there are some splinters and separation at the tow where two vertical strips are inlet into the butt for strength. Handguard is cracked about halfway, but it is a clean dry one that will repair easily. Overall a good representative example of a Mosin Nagant that actually looks different from most of the other variations. Since the receiver was made in 1895, this is officially an antique and can be shipped direct with no need for a FFL $325.00 (View Picture)

15080 "Custer Range" U.S. Model 1873 .45-70 Trapdoor Carbine - Serial number 21264 made at Springfield Armory in 1874, long before Custer’s June 25, 1876 unsuccessful foray against the Sioux at the Little Big Horn. At least eleven carbines with serial numbers in the 21,000 range are listed as unserviceable arms turned in by Benteen and Jackson in the 2nd Quarter of 1877, and three other nearby numbers were recovered at Slim Buttes, so this is in a primary Custer range. Although there is no proof that this one was there, or even nearby, it is nice to be able to get one with even the slim possibility. U.S. military arms are not made at arsenals and then set aside for collectors to “ooh and ahh” over a hundred years later. The guns are made to arm the troops to go out and kill the enemy. Once issued, they are eventually returned and, as needed, they are repaired or updated and sent back out to be used some more. While it is nice to find totally original and unaltered arms, those which have seen service and have been updated are also fine collector pieces. This trapdoor carbine was made in 1874, and still retains the original barrel with no proof marks, and it is a genuine carbine barrel, not a cut down rifle barrel. The bore is about good, with the shallow rifling well worn, but otherwise not bad. The remaining parts are of mixed vintages, the result of later overhauls, or perhaps parts switching by owners after it left military service. The lock is not dated 1873, and the breechblock is a slightly later M8173 with the “low arch” but still the narrow width. Guard bow is genuine carbine type with no provisions for a sling swivel. The rear sight is the M1884 Buffington type, with the “C” for carbine marking, and the 1890 sight protector band is used. The Buttstock is a later M1877 type with the trap in the butt for the tools, and the long comb, and the wide inletting for the M1877 and later receivers which were a bit wider, but the narrow receiver fits in them with just a slight gap on the sides. It has two excellent cartouches, SWP/1880 and SWP/1890 and also two good circle P proof marks behind the trigger guard. I am not sure of the meaning of the double cartouches, but suspect it may be addressed in Al Frasca’s excellent research. The saddle ring bar is original, but I believe the ring is an old replacement that looks a bit thin to me. The metal parts have a consistent smooth mostly brown patina with scattered hints of a plum tone. No real rust or pitting, just finish turned to patina. The butt trap has an original M1877 ruptured cartridge extractor, and a three piece cleaning rod. I think the latter is a reproduction, but it is hard to tell on these. If you wanted to return this closer to the original configuration, it would not be hard to find a 1873 dated lock, and early hammer and M1873 carbine rear sight and band. Of course, finding a real M1873 stock will be nearly impossible, but some people do win the lottery and maybe you will get lucky too. We have had a half dozen other trapdoor carbines, but this is the first “Custer range” gun we have had. This is from a very advanced collector who is thinning his collection out a bit. $4950.00 (View Picture)

14863 U.S. Model 1896 .30-40 Krag Carbine (NOT a cut down rifle) - Serial number 77935 with correct early type short stock and the correct M1896 carbine sight and handguard. Only 19,133 of the M1896 carbines were made (compared to 28,000 M1903A4 sniper rifles) making them a very desirable item for a U.S. martial collector, and hard to find. With one minor exception this is a complete and correct Model 1896 Krag carbine, such as those used by the famous “Rough Riders.” The barrel is a correct carbine barrel, not a cut down rifle barrel, and the front sight blade has the proper tiny “C” on the side. Bolt assembly is proper 1896 type with the short clearance cut on the underside. Stock has been sanded and given an old oil finish that looks pretty good. Stock is free from the cracks commonly found between the magazine and bolt, or extending back from the magazine on the left side and has only a few minor handling or storage dings since refinishing. No traces of cartouche or circle P. Bore is bright, not pitted, but with very worn rifling and just a bit dark in the grooves. Metal parts with about 80% or more dark finish which I believe is an old arsenal “clean and repair” refinish. Most of the finish is blue or turning plum while the trigger guard (usually worn bright on Krags) is more of a rust brown finish. The saddle ring and bar are intact. The very rare carbine handguard has a crack on the right side and there is a piece missing on the left side (about 5/8” x ¾”) which could be repaired by someone good with wood. The only incorrect items noticed are the rear sight attaching screws which can be easily replaced with the proper ones. This is one of the very few essentially correct M1896 carbines we have seen in recent years. Most of the guns advertised as M1896 carbines are in fact cut down rifles, or have many later replacement parts, so be VERY careful when buying one of these. This serial number falls amongst many documented carbines, but there is no history available for this number. Interestingly, one Krag used by Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders is a few hundred numbers away, so this is certainly representative of the carbines issued to that famous unit, as well as many other cavalry units during the Spanish American War. Despite the very minor problem with sight screws, this is in overall G-VG condition and a well above average example of a REAL M1896 carbine. Made prior to 1898 so it is an ANTIQUE and NO FFL IS NEEDED TO ORDER. $2750.00 (View Picture)

15376 U.S. Model 1884 .45-70 Trapdoor Springfield Infantry Rifle - Serial number 436752 made about 1889 around the time they were switching production to the Model 1888 rod bayonet rifles. This one is a handsome rifle with an excellent bore. We sell all guns as collector items, but if your gunsmith approves it as safe to fire, it should do as well as any of the old trapdoors. This one has about 95% blue finish, original on some parts, and old arsenal refinish on others. The breechblock and receiver and rear couple of inches of the barrel seem to have had the finish touched up or redone at some time. There are two "pinky fingertip spots of very light pitting near the breech that have been touched up at some point. Some areas of the barrel are starting to turn plum. The barrel has some fore and aft scrapes like someone tried to sand the stock while the barrel was still in it, leaving some small lengthwise scratches. The walnut stock may have been lightly sanded as there are no traces of a cartouche or circle P, or it may have been a replacement stock installed at some point which never had these stampings. In any case it has the correct military style rubbed oil finish and only a couple insignificant handling dings The rich purist collector will turn up their nose at the apparent mix of finishes, but the astute bargain hunter will note that it is a nice looking rifle with shooter potential that will not cause catastrophic loss of value if you take it out once in a while for reenactor or range use. Just fine for the collector looking for a representative "trapdoor". Every collector should own at least one trapdoor (…of each model and in rifle, cadet and carbine configurations). This is a nice example of the standard infantry rifle as used by most of the volunteer units in the Spanish American War, although there is no documented history on this one. $895.00 (View Picture)

1087 MODEL 1892 .30-40 KRAG RIFLE PROJECT - Serial number 23399 with good JSA 1895 cartouche. This is an ongoing restoration project of mine which needs to have a forend made to finish it up, and a M1892 handguard (original or repro), a magazine cutoff and a M1896 front sight blade. This is an UNMODIFIED M1892 stock (although cut off at the band) and M1892 UNMODIFIED receiver which has never had the notch added for the bolt stop when M1892 rifles were upgraded to M1896 configuration. The barrel is a regular M1896 with the crowned muzzle (it was flat on the M1892). We include an upper band which has been modified to add a cleaning rod guide to duplicate the appearance of the ultra rare M1892 band. The stock has the correct straight toe, with the thin, no-trap buttplate and very good legible JSA 1895 and circle P. It also has the letter “J: near the cartouche, which I believe is a Span-Am era overhaul marking, but I do not know the location. Initials WFP lightly scratched on the bottom of the stock ahead of the trigger guard but not very noticeable. Correct oval head large buttplate screw, but like most Krags, the finish is gone from the buttplate. It does not have any of the usual cracks or damage in the action area, but is good and solid. It is cut at the lower band, but the end of the cleaning rod groove is clearly visible, and it was never enlarged for the 1896 filler strip. It had some ugly varnish stripped without harming the markings, and has the expected assorted minor dings and scrapes of an issued arm. Restoration of the stock would involve splicing a new forend piece in place, with a groove for the cleaning rod. This is not a hard job, but requires some patience and skill, and I have not had time to do it. No cleaning rod or handguard are included, but S&S sells nice repros. Front sight blade and magazine cutoff are easy to find. The action is marked on the left side 1894 SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 23399 and the receiver parts are a mix of gray, silver, black and dull steel colors. Bolt is dull steel gray color that matches nicely with the other parts. Bolt is the (scarce) correct type for this serial number range with the cut on the rib, and the gas escape hole located closer to the front like the earlier square rib bolts. Bolt sleeve is late 1892 type with pinned safety but not knurled. Extractor is a M1896 that has been altered to remove the bolt stop pin, so it looks like the M1892. Exposed parts of the barrel with about 85-90% blue turning plum. Barrel has some moderate pitting between the M1892 rear sight and the receiver that will be hidden by the handguard. Bore is dark and worn and rough, but no cavernous pitting. You could square off the muzzle face to end up with a very good approximation of the M1892 Krag appearance. Normally I would not encourage such extensive restorations, but the number of unmodified M1892 rifles is miniscule, and few collectors will ever be fortunate enough to own one, so this may be as close as you will get. Antique, no FFL needed. $1450.00 (View Picture)

14811 COMMIE BLOC "FENCING MUSKET" - Obviously patterned after the Mosin Nagant, but then altered with a block of wood resembling an AK style magazine added to the bottom, these were used for teaching bayonet fighting. The spring loaded tip can be depressed about 4 inches into the barrel, similar to a pogo stick. This is a fairly common approach, and I have seen fencing muskets with the same concept from Sweden and England as well. The U.S. used bayonets with passed spring steel blades, and later switched to "pugil sticks". Just collecting "fencing musket variations would be neat specialty with probably several dozen variations from all over the world to chase down. These may be East German as some are marked "MODELL 4.853" which sounds German to me. Overall excellent condition (except for some scattered light surface rust that should clean up). Complete with original excellent sling. Still legal in Kalifornia, but may be next on their ban list. Non-firearm, no FFL needed. Photo shows a typical example, but this is one we were going to keep and is nicer than the one in the photo. $95.00 (View Picture)

14944 PATTERN 1853 .577 ENFIELD 3 BAND RIFLE MUSKET (Wallhanger) - A real Civil War era musket that someone [Bubba’s idiot cousin?] had heavily polished and then chrome or nickel plated. Bands and trigger look like they have a gold color. Interior of lock shows that it was somewhat pitted on the inside, and the outside must have been worse, so this was not a real nice one to start with, but there is no pitting visible on the outside now. Stock looks okay and could be used for a restoration project if you don’t want the sun glaring off this “beauty” on your wall every day. Mainspring is broken but remaining part has been wedged in place to provide a little tension on the hammer. No ramrod. Lockplate marked with crown, but no other marks visible. A representative Civil War musket. These .577 Enfields were used in huge numbers by both US and CS forces in the Civil War and second only to the .58 Springfields in their popularity. CHEAP history! $425.00 (View Picture)

14922 STARR CIVIL WAR SADDLE RING CARBINE .54 caliber percussion breechloader - Serial number 10982 (these are numbered on the breechblock, in case you are wondering where to find the number). Made by Eben T. Starr in Yonkers, New York, the same folks who made the single and double action Starr revolvers which were widely used during the Civil War. The Starr carbine is somewhat similar to the Sharps with the lever dropping the breech for loading with a paper cartridge, (with more of a rolling back motion than the Sharps vertical sliding motion) and then use of a percussion cap on the block to ignite the paper cartridge. Overall condition is about very good, with little or no finish remaining, and the steel parts turned to a dull steel gray mixed with some brown patina,. There is a thumbprint size patch of light roughness on the left side of the receiver, but no real pitting anywhere outside. The bore is about good being dark with some roughness and in need of a good cleaning. Mechanically sound with unbuggered screw heads. Brass buttplate and band have a mellow patina. Walnut butt and forend have not been sanded, and have the patina and assorted dings of an issued arm. Initial “B” or maybe “IB” carved on the butt. The 20,601 Starr carbines delivered 1862-1865 were issued to various Union cavalry units, including regiments from Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, New York and Pennsylvania. While primarily thought of as a Civil War weapon, in fact the Starr carbines continued in use with the 2nd Cavalry on the plains until replaced by Spencers in 1867. A nice representative example of an interesting mechanical design that worked well, and undoubtedly saw action, but whose contributions were eclipsed by the better known Sharps and Spencer models. $1750.00 (View Picture)

14862 U.S. Model 1896 .30-40 Krag Carbine (NOT a cut down rifle) - Serial number 68886 with correct early type short stock. Rear sight is the Model 1902 type from a rifle, so the short handguard needed for the short stocks which only used the M1896 rear sight got thrown away long ago. Very good bore. Front sight blade is a higher commercial type, but base is okay. Stock was lightly sanded long ago, and has a dark brown oiled finish. Faint traces of illegible cartouche and circle P. Action turned mostly silvery mixed with stain and a bit of patina. Barrel retains most of its blue, turning plum or patina. Bolt body is M1898 with the slightly longer flat on the underside of the bolt handle than the 1896, butotherwise interchangeable. Stock has a chip on both sides at the receiver ring, easily repaired with a bit of walnut and some epoxy if you are handy, otherwise best left alone. If the rear sight were replaced with a M1896 sight (probably a rifle as the carbine sights are $$$$$ if you can find one that is not a remarked rifle sight!) and a repro short handguard from S&S added. Then you would have a nice representative M1896 saddle ring carbine as used by Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders. Despite the flaws, this is actually a bit better than what we usually see in the 1896 Krag carbines on the market in recent years. $1450.00 (View Picture)

14619 GERMAN MODEL 1871/1884 MAUSER RIFLE (IG 71/84) - Serial number 2625 made at Spandau in 1887. The Infanterie Gewehr Model 1871/1884, Germany's first infantry repeating rifle, is an evolution of Paul Mauser's first successful military rifle, the Model 1871 single shot Mauser. Learning from the Turkish victory at the battles of Plevna in 1877, (where the Turks, partially armed with Model 1866 Winchester repeating rifles soundly defeated the numerically superior Russians armed with Krnka and Berdan II single shot rifles) the I.G.Mod.71/84 uses a tubular magazine (similar to the Winchester system), and the basic Mauser bolt action. The 8 round tubular magazine in the forestock loaded singly from the top with the bolt open. Rounds are carried to the chamber by an elevator which pivots at the back, similarly to the Kropatcheks but quite unlike the Swiss Vetterli repeater. There is a magazine cut-off lever on the left side so that the rifle may be used in single shot mode. The 71/84 rifles are superbly made and finished, with blued barrel, receiver and bolt in the white, and fire blued small parts. The Prussian state where the rifles were in service is indicted by the crowned monarch’s cypher on the barrel: This one bears the mark F.W. (Fredrik Wilhelm of Prussia), while others are marked L. for King Ludwig of Bavarian, or W. (for the Wurttemberg Kingdom). Although the I.G.Mod.71/84 never saw front line military service, many saw service with German reserve and behind the lines units through WW1. This one has unit markings on the butt plate tank K.F.R. over E.4.60. (Kaiser Franz Grade-Grenadier Regiment, Ersatz Batallion, Kompagnie 4, weapon number 60) Although unit marked, the rifle appears to be about mint unissued with 99% of the beautiful original blue, the bright finished receiver and bolt have just a bit of light staining, and the barrel has a barely noticable fingerprint size spot of patina about 2/3 of the way to the muzzle, and another spot about 3/8” diameter nearby. The unsanded walnut stock has two dings worth mentioning: one round bruise on the left side by the receiver, and a thumbprint size area of scraping on the left side of the butt. Otherwise, only a couple of minute blemishes from 120 years of careful storage and handling. This is a top condition piece, and I doubt if you will ever see a nicer one. The M1871/84 is a historic milestone in the development of Mauser rifles, and indeed all military small arms. If you like history, or just like great condition pieces, this is a superb choice, the best we have ever had in this model. (NOTE: For more excellent history and disassembly instructions on this model, and info on all military rifles of the black powder era see Keith Doyan’s OUTSTANDING site at http://www.militaryrifles.com.) $1450.00 (View Picture)

13933 U.S. MODEL 1888 .45-70 "TRAPDOOR" RIFLE WITH ROD-BAYONET - Serial number 517047, made in 1891. Over 60,000 of these rod bayonet rifles were made 1890-1893, and many of them were used in the Spanish American War although there is no history for this specific rifle. It is certain that this rifle was issued, as it has a very neatly stamped F over 37 on the left side of the stock (3/4 inch high stencil outline type letters). Such markings seem to have been applied exclusively by the state volunteer units, not the regulars, but again, we do not know what regiment this might be. The M1888 rifles were made at the end of the trapdoor era using the same silly idea (first tried in 1833 with Hall carbines and later repeated again with the M1903 Springfield prior to 1905) whereby a rod bayonet would be used, eliminating the need for a separate bayonet. Since the Indian Wars had not seen much (if any) use of the bayonet, it probably seemed like a good idea, especially since the cost would be cheaper than getting back into the socket bayonet manufacturing business. Up until that point most of the trapdoor bayonets were made by altering left over Civil War era .58 caliber musket bayonets, and Springfield was out of them. This rifle is an excellent example. Bore is excellent, exceptionally sharp and bright. Excellent unsanded stock with sharp SWP over 1891 cartouche and circle P. The stock is a uniform dark brownish-black color with an old oil finish, and only a few mostly minor handling and storage dings or bruises. Bubba’s grandfather scratched a small block with initials CFR next to the SW) 1891 cartouche, so it must have met with his approval as well. Breech block and tang retain much of their case colors on the 1884 dated block. Remaining metal parts with about 80-90% original blue finish, slightly thinning or starting to turn plum. Most wear is on the buttplate and the trigger guard and thinning on the ends of the lockplate. Excellent mechanics. Reportedly these were not good shooters due to the solid attachment of the heavy rod bayonet to the muzzle, so that when fired, the rod acted like a tuning fork- vibrating the whole time the bullet was headed out the barrel. Simply removing the rod when shooting eliminates that problem, and the Buffington sights (especially with addition of a front sight hood) are capable of excellent accuracy. Butt trap has the standard two holes with a slot along one edge for carrying a M1879 combination tool, M1882 headless shell extractor and a cleaning tip for the rod bayonet. A really nice rifle, but not so screaming minty that you would be afraid to shoot it once in a while if you like. (Note: all guns sold as collector items only and must be approved by a competent gunsmith prior to shooting.) Of the 60,000 made, a great many have been chopped down for sporting use over the years, perhaps up to 50% making these a lot less common than the production figures suggest. As the last of the single shot, blackpowder rifles, this is a key milestone in U.S. martial arms history. $1195.00 (View Picture)

14339 CIVIL WAR JOSLYN MODEL 1864 SADDLE RING CARBINE - Serial number 4594, all correct and original. The Joslyn was a brilliantly simple design, with a side swinging breechblock that used a wedge type extractor to remove the fired case. There were two basic models made during the Civil war, the 1862 (about 3,600 made) and the Model 1864 (about 12,500 made) differing mainly with the Model 1864 having a spring loaded latch to hold the block in the closed position, a protective ring around the firing pin, and use of iron instead of brass furniture. (The M1864 Joslyn action was adopted as the basis for Springfield Armory’s first breechloading rifles, the Model 1865 Joslyn with 3,0007 made in early 1865 but delivered too late for combat use.) This carbine is the Model 1864, made in 1864 and undoubtedly reaching the field late in 1864. The following Cavalry units are listed in McAulay as having the Model 1864 Joslyn carbines: 2nd California; 4th & 8th Indiana; 2nd Kentucky; 4th Missouri; 1st Nebraska; 11th Ohio; 9th Pennsylvania; 13th Tennessee; 2nd & 3rd West Viriginia; 1st Wisconsin, and the 3rd and 5th U.S. Colored. I believe that the 1st Colorado Volunteer Cavalry should be on the list as well. This is an excellent example with about 95% original blue finish on the barrel, and maybe 20-40% of the case hardened finish on the lock and furniture. There is some widely scattered light surface rust specks (that should mostly come off with a careful cleaning), but a bit heavier concentration on the buttplate. The unsanded walnut stock has a few assorted storage and handling dings, and just the original oil finish. Sharp inspector cartouches (script FDL in block) twice on the left side of the stock and again as initials only on the left side of the barrel and by the buttplate tang. Bore is bright and sharp with a couple of spots of rust/dirt that may or may not clean out. These were nominally chambered for use with .52 caliber rimfire cartridges, but in fact the ammunition used was identical to that made for the M1860 Spencers, either the .56-56 Spencer or .56-52 Spencer. This is an extremely nice example of an important Civil War saddle ring carbine model. $3250.00 (View Picture)

13631 TRAPDOOR SPRINGFIELD FENCING MUSKET (TYPE IV) - Serial number 281480. (Flayderman 9A-394) Bayonet fighting was considered an essential skill prior to and during World War I. To avoid costly damage to newly adopted Model 1903 rifles (and the troops who would use them) the U.S. Army provided "fencing muskets". Obsolete .45-70 “trapdoor” Springfields cut to the same length as the Model 1903 rifle, with hammers, sights, and sharp corners removed. A flexible spring steel bayonet with a rounded tip was used. Early Fencing Muskets made between 1906 and 1909 used socket bayonets and are called “Type III” by collectors. About 10,000-12,000 of the later “Type IV” made between 1909 and 1916 using flat blade bayonets with two mounting rings, like this one. We often have the bayonets for these on the edged weapons page. This is in about average condition with numerous scars, nicks dings and gouges from hand to hand combat training. Sharp SWP/1880 cartouche and circle P show that good condition rifles were butchered to make fencing muskets. Sear, springs and bridle from the interior of the lock were stripped by previous owner. Barrels are supposed to be filled with lead, but it is often found removed, as is the case with this one. Bore has some crud at the muzzle that should clean up, and the rest is mirror bright! Breechblock camshaft ground flush at time of conversion, but someone out a small screw into the remains of the shaft so you can open the block to determine the full serial number. Stock has been drilled through in three places with 1/8” diameter holes, probably to facilitate mounting on a wall. Two of the holes are at the bandspring locations (and the springs removed). Other is in the butt visible in the photos, but all are easily plugged. If you want to risk being struck by lightning for desecrating a historic old gun, this could be turned into a reenactor “carbine” with a very little bit of work. The distance between the breech and the rear hole for the fencing bayonet is 21 inches, just an inch short of the 22 inch carbine barrel length. You would need some internal lock parts, hammer, cam latch, extractor, front sight and, if desired, a saddle ring and bar, nearly all available from S&S on our links page. A very unusual addition to a collection of M1903 Springfields, or trapdoors, or bayonets. In fact, there are a dozen or more different "fencing muskets" from various countries that would make an interesting collecting niche to pursue. $395.00 (View Picture)

12945 Italian M1870/87/16 6.5mm bolt action Vetterli-Mannlicher Rifle - Serial number XX1585 made in 1883 at Torre Annuziata arsenal, (which operated until about 1900). Originally made as a single shot Vetterli rifle firing the 10.35 x 47mm rimmed cartridge, the model 1870 rifles were altered in 1887 to add a Vitalli type box magazine, much like the Dutch and their Beaumont-Vitalli rifles. In WW1, shortages of arms led the Italians to further alter these rifles by lining the bore to use the 6.5x52mm Carcano cartridge and replacing the magazine with a Mannlicher type magazine. This conversion was only marginally safe for the old black powder loads, and they were generally issued to second line troops, or colonial infantrymen. Some of the rifles served with the Italian forces in North Africa in WW2, (those defeated by Haille Selassie's spear wielding Ethiopian tribesmen). Lug on side of barrel for sword/knife bayonet. Barrel flats marked TORRE ANNUZIATA/ 1883 on one side and serial number XX1585 on the other. Walnut stock has been lightly sanded during the period of it service and now has an old military oil finish. Large semi-legible roundel on the left side, probably from the time of last conversion. Right side has deeply struck serial number MT 3565. Metal parts with about 90-95% arsenal refinish on most parts, bolt finished bright, and just thin traces of blue on the magazine. Stock is sound and has only the expected handling and storage dings, nothing to get excited about. We have seen a number of these over the years and this is probably the best of them all, and the ONLY one we have ever seen complete with the cleaning rod. Good mechanics and dirty bore which may or may not clean up to be very good. (We definitely recommend that this rifle NOT be shot!) Unlike the later Mannlicher-Carcanos of WW2, these are not encountered very often. A good representative example of this important early European military bolt action rifle. Antique, no FFL needed. $325.00 (View Picture)

4147 U.S. Model 1879 .45-70 "trapdoor rifle" - Serial number 169401, made about 1882. A good representative example of the Indian War era “trapdoor rifle.” No specific history is available for this rifle, although rifles with nearby serial numbers were used by various units in the Spanish American War. This rifle needs a good cleaning as there is dried crud in various places, mixed with some patina and rust, but not really any roughness or pitting. Overall it appears to be a mostly smooth blue-black color. This was probably arsenal overhauled circa 1900 as the stock seems to have been scraped and refinished long ago. There is one repair to the comb of the stock, (about 3/8” thick by 2” long) that went unnoticed for a long time. Otherwise the stock is solid and a pleasing medium brown with only a few minor storage or handling dings. Bore is bright with strong rifling. Rear sight is correct M1879 type with “slotless” screws. Front sight blade has been replaced with a higher blade so that you won’t shoot a couple feet high at ranges less than 200 yards. (We sell all guns as collector items only and they must be approved by a competent gunsmith prior to firing.) Front sight does interfere with attaching the bayonet, so a reenactor could file down the blade or replace it if they wanted to use a bayonet. Lockplate has 1873 date, probably from mixing of parts at time of overhaul. No cartouche visible. A good representative rifle, probably a veteran of the Indian wars and/or the Spanish American War. Antique, no FFL needed. $950.00 (View Picture)

13175 TRAPDOOR SPRINGFIELD FENCING MUSKET (TYPE IV) - Serial number 9576?. (Flayderman 9A-394) Bayonet fighting was considered an essential skill prior to and during World War I. To avoid costly damage to newly adopted Model 1903 rifles (and the troops who would use them) the U.S. Army provided "fencing muskets". Obsolete .45-70 “trapdoor” Springfields cut to the same length as the Model 1903 rifle, with hammers, sights, and sharp corners removed. A flexible spring steel bayonet with a rounded tip was used. Early Fencing Muskets made between 1906 and 1909 used socket bayonets and are called “Type III” by collectors. About 10,000-12,000 of the later “Type IV” made between 1909 and 1916 using flat blade bayonets with two mounting rings, like this one. We often have the bayonets for these on the edged weapons page. This is in about average condition with numerous scars, nicks dings and gouges from hand to hand combat training. Sharp SWP/1881 cartouche and circle P show that good condition rifles were butchered to make fencing muskets. Springs and screws etc from the interior of the lock were stripped by previous owner. Barrels are supposed to be filled with lead, as is the case with this one, but I have seen them both with and without. Breechblock camshaft ground flush at time of conversion so you cannot open the block to determine the full serial number. A very unusual addition to a collection of M1903 Springfields, or trapdoors, or bayonets. In fact, there are a dozen or more different "fencing muskets" from various countries that would make an interesting collecting niche to pursue. $425.00 (View Picture)

12919 Danish Rolling Block Rifle M1867/1896 - One of about 30,000 made at the Danish Arsenal at Copenhagen 1870-1908, under license from Remington. This one marked on the tang Kjobenhavns toihuus 1875 with crown and M-1867 on left side of receiver. Barrel has serial number 47627, also found on stock. Crown markings sharp and clear adjacent to serial number on barrel and also on left side of forend and buttstock. Stock never sanded but has assorted minor bruises and bumps on the wood, nothing too serious. Brass marking disc on right side of butt is blank. Barrel marked at top rear with crown indicating conversion in 1896 to improved 11.5x51R smokeless powder centerfire cartridge, hence the 1867/96 designation. An interesting feature is that the breechblock retains a hole to allow firing pin installation for use with rimfire cartridges. Faint traces of color casehardening on the receiver. Barrel with about 40-50% thinning blue finish. Excellent shiny bore. Long range rear sight with arm for volley sight and middle band retains the screw head type volley sight. Barrel bands were originally finished bright but now mostly a dull steel gray. Overall fine condition or a bit better. These are chambered for a Danish round that is slightly shorter than the .45-70 cartridge, and a bit fatter near the head. While we do not recommend shooting these, some people reportedly fire light loads using trimmed .45-70 cases and only neck size them afterwards. These are very reasonably priced examples of a late 19th century military black powder cartridge rifle. One of the nicer examples we have seen of this model. Antique- no FFL required. $850.00 (View Picture)

4340 U.S. M1866 .50-70 "Second Allin" Rifle - About 52,000 Model 1866 rifles were made at Springfield Armory between 1867 and 1869 by converting Model 1863 (Type 2) muskets. Musket barrels were bored out smooth then sleeved to .50 caliber and an opening cut in the breech for the hinged Allin breech block. The block and hinge had a black case hardened finish, the rear sight and trigger were blued, and remaining parts were finished bright. The Civil War stocks were internally altered to make room for the extractor and ejector mechanisms. These had a weak extractor mechanism and were not popular with troops. However, they proved the great value of the breechloader at the "Wagon Box fight" against the Indians in 1867. As the first widely issued breech loading centerfire infantry rifle made at Springfield and used by the U.S. Army, these are a major milestone for arms collectors. During the Franco-Prussian War about half of the Model 1866 rifles were sold to the French and later destroyed, making the number of surviving rifles about the same as the number of M1903A4 sniper rifles made. This is an excellent example that is uncleaned and will look better with a careful cleaning, unless you are one of the "I like original rust" types. The bore is excellent plus. Block and hinge retain about 50% of the darkened finish. Balance of metal parts motsly dull steel gray with some light staining or patina forming. One tiny patch of light pitting on the left side of the lower band and a bit of roughness around the outside of the muzzle where it rested in the blocks in an arms chest. The unsanded walnut stock is absolutely magnificent (except on area) with crisp sharp edges, and excellent circle P behind the trigger guard. No cartouches. Only a very few very minor handling or storage dings. However, there is one area about 1 inch square on the lower left side of the forend that must have been burned or gouged and was smoothed down many years ago. The rifle displays nicely anyway as this is on the side normally against the wall, but it is there and probably could not be filled in to make it less of a problem. Despite that this is a darn nice gun, among the top 10% of this model we have encountered over the years, and priced well below what it would be if it were perfect. Antique, No FFL needed. $1795.00 (View Picture)

4144 U.S. Model 1884 .45-70 "trapdoor rifle" - Serial number 446608- Metal is in great condition with about 90% color case hardening on the breechblock and tang, and about 90-92% original blue on the other parts. However, this came from the old Stembridge Gun Rental collection and was probably rented for use in some of the movies and the stock has a lot of minor, and some medium dings. With a good soaking, some repeated steaming, and a light sanding and some filler in the two big boo boos this will be a very handsome specimen, with the interesting Hollywood connection to boot. Antique, no FFL needed. $895.00 (View Picture)

**HOLD** 5651 WARD TAPE PRIMER CONVERSION OF M1816 MUSKET - Really scarce item, but really rough condition. (Flayderman 9A-269). This was a standard M1816 .69 caliber smoothbore flintlock musket made by Asa Waters in Milbury, Mass in 1826. The Ward conversion involved fitting a new percussion breech with a nipple, and installing a special hammer that had a small milled out section to hold Maynard type tape primers. When the hammer was cocked, a small star shaped wheel would feed a fresh primer section aligned for the hammer to hit on the nipple. Sources differ on total numbers produced, ranging from an estimated total of 151 to Flayderman's figure of maybe 300 on a New York state contract in 1857 and 100 more for federal use. In any case, I have only seen about 5 of these in my life (including those at Springfield and in the Fuller Collection). This example has the correct cone type front sight and unique rear sight but is missing the primer cavity door. All metal parts are heavily rusted, pitted, and pretty well frozen in place. Lock has two bright spots cleaned up to read the maker marks. Walnut stock is dark and weathered, but solid and has good traces of cartouches. Ramrod is not fully seated (sticks out about an inch past the muzzle). Undoubtedly a battlefield relic from the early days of the Civil War, or an item that languished in some barn for decades. Really rough, but really scarce. I was hoping to salvage the sight and some of the mechanism to restore the Ward in my collection, but decided to leave this one intact. Wish it were nicer, but seldom seen for sale in any condition. $995.00 (View Picture)

4143 U.S. Model 1884 .45-70 "trapdoor rifle" - Serial number 445028- Metal is in great condition with about 90% color case hardening on the breechblock and tang, and about 92-95% original blue on the other parts. However, this came from the old Stembridge Gun Rental collection ans was probably rented for use in some of the movies and the stock has a lot of minor, some medium and two major dings. Large ones are on left side of stockjust below the rear lock screw, and a gouge out of the lower left f the forend behind the lower band. With a good soaking, some repeated steaming, and a light sanding and some filler in the two big boo boos this will be a very handsome specimen, with the interesting Hollywood connection to boot. Antique,. no FFL needed.  $895.00 (View Picture)

**STOLEN BY PERSON IN PORTLAND, OR AREA, or possibly a long haul trucker. $500 reward for return of this item or information leading to arrest and conviction of the thief, who got several other antique arms from other dealers by credit card fraud... $100 reward if you are first to spot this on an auction site.** 12036 U.S. MODEL 1863 TYPE II .58 CALIBER RIFLE MUSKET - Made at Springfield in 1864 and so marked on the lockplate. Barrel date not visible. Excellent bore. This is a good representative example of a .58 caliber Civil War musket, although not in the best condition. Basically a "brown gun" except for the trigger guard which has about 90-95% arsenal blue and must have been taken from a trapdoor (parts are identical except for being left bright on the M1855-1870 and blued on the M1873-1888 trapdoors. Otherwise all original and correct parts. Stock has been broken through he wrist and repaired long ago, but is not real tight and should be redone with epoxy which will make it stronger than the original wood. The stock has been sanded, but not badly. Metal parts (except trigger guard) mostly have a layer of brown patina/rust, with some light pitting under some areas, most notably around the nipple. Displays okay as is, or could be polished up with 320 emery cloth if you prefer the original bright look. The M1863 (type 2) which is sometimes called the M1864, was the highpoint in the development of the rifle musket for Infantry use, and the next year was replaced by the first of the Allin breechloding "trapdoors." The M1863 (Type 2) differed from the M1863 only in having the rounded bands retained by band springs instead of merely screw clamps. The M1863 differed from the M1861 which had flat bands retained by bandsprings, and the nipple bolster set out a bit further and having a clean out screw instead of an angled flash hole, and used a "swell" in the ramrod to hold it in place instead of a screw plate. All the .58 rifle muskets fired a 500 grain (little over 1 ounce) soft lead Minie ball with a hollow base. When the 60 grains of black powder was ignited by the flash from the percussion cap, the expanding gasses expanded the rear of the Minie ball to engage the rifling. Sights are provided for 100, 300 and 500 yards, but masses of troops could be engaged at ranges up to 1,000 yards. With a rate of fire of about 3 rounds per minute, and its long range, the .58 caliber rifle muskets forced dramatic changes in tactics from the massed formations used for the preceding several hundred years. Many collectors have a musket from the Civil War as a logical starting point for a collection of "modern" military rifles. This one comes with a good quality reproduction sling. Civil War muskets are getting more expensive but this one is affordable (due to the flaws) and has the potential to be much nicer after the stock has been repaired properly. $995.00 (View Picture)

Restoration Projects!

 For those of you who have thoughtfully stashed away some stocks and hardware (or stocks and bonds with which to invest in stocks and bands) here are some prime candidates for restoration. Some of these rifles were converted to sporters many years ago when no one was interested in collecting "surplus" military  rifles and everybody was busy turning them into cheap deer rifles. While many people butchered the stocks and cut off barrels and refinished things, a few considerate (or lazy) people merely chopped off the stock and threw away all the useless bands and stuff. These rifles are very easy to restore if you have an appropriate stock and bands.

**NEW ADDITION** 1087 MODEL 1892 .30-40 KRAG RIFLE PROJECT - Serial number 23399 with good JSA 1895 cartouche. This is an ongoing restoration project of mine which needs to have a forend made to finish it up, and a M1892 handguard (original or repro), a magazine cutoff and a M1896 front sight blade. This is an UNMODIFIED M1892 stock (although cut off at the band) and M1892 UNMODIFIED receiver which has never had the notch added for the bolt stop when M1892 rifles were upgraded to M1896 configuration. The barrel is a regular M1896 with the crowned muzzle (it was flat on the M1892). We include an upper band which has been modified to add a cleaning rod guide to duplicate the appearance of the ultra rare M1892 band. The stock has the correct straight toe, with the thin, no-trap buttplate and very good legible JSA 1895 and circle P. It also has the letter “J: near the cartouche, which I believe is a Span-Am era overhaul marking, but I do not know the location. Initials WFP lightly scratched on the bottom of the stock ahead of the trigger guard but not very noticeable. Correct oval head large buttplate screw, but like most Krags, the finish is gone from the buttplate. It does not have any of the usual cracks or damage in the action area, but is good and solid. It is cut at the lower band, but the end of the cleaning rod groove is clearly visible, and it was never enlarged for the 1896 filler strip. It had some ugly varnish stripped without harming the markings, and has the expected assorted minor dings and scrapes of an issued arm. Restoration of the stock would involve splicing a new forend piece in place, with a groove for the cleaning rod. This is not a hard job, but requires some patience and skill, and I have not had time to do it. No cleaning rod or handguard are included, but S&S sells nice repros. Front sight blade and magazine cutoff are easy to find. The action is marked on the left side 1894 SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 23399 and the receiver parts are a mix of gray, silver, black and dull steel colors. Bolt is dull steel gray color that matches nicely with the other parts. Bolt is the (scarce) correct type for this serial number range with the cut on the rib, and the gas escape hole located closer to the front like the earlier square rib bolts. Bolt sleeve is late 1892 type with pinned safety but not knurled. Extractor is a M1896 that has been altered to remove the bolt stop pin, so it looks like the M1892. Exposed parts of the barrel with about 85-90% blue turning plum. Barrel has some moderate pitting between the M1892 rear sight and the receiver that will be hidden by the handguard. Bore is dark and worn and rough, but no cavernous pitting. You could square off the muzzle face to end up with a very good approximation of the M1892 Krag appearance. Normally I would not encourage such extensive restorations, but the number of unmodified M1892 rifles is miniscule, and few collectors will ever be fortunate enough to own one, so this may be as close as you will get. Antique, no FFL needed. $1450.00 (View Picture)