2nd Model Virginia Manufactory Musket Cutdown Converted to Percussion
Item #: AA3230
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This is a 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory musket that has been cut down from it's standard length. The 2nd Model Virginia Manufactory was produced from 182 through 1821, with approximately 37,000 manufactured during that period. These are sometimes referred to as the Model 181s Type musket. These muskets were produced in three different barrel lengths, from the standard 42", but also in 39" and 36" lengths. This musket has been cut down to an overall length of 34". The barrel is 18 1/4" in length, and has a mixed steel gray patina with black age spots along the entire length of the barrel. Near the breach it is almost completely black. There is light pitting along the entire surface of the barrel. These muskets were originally flint, but this one has been converted to percussion by forging a bolster onto the barrel. The bore gauges at .70 caliber, is dark and has scattered patched of rust along the length of the barrel. There are no visible inspectors stamps, proofs or regimental or county markings on the barrel. A iron button head ram rod came with this musket. It has been shortened as well, and still retains the threaded end. The only barrel band that remains is the lower one. The lock plate is stamped VIRGINIA in block letter over Manufactory in script letters in front of the hammer. Behind the hammer, stamped in a vertical arc is RICHMOND and the date of 1814. The lock and the hammer have taken on the same dark patina as the barrel. The mechanics of the lock have a problem, the hammer will lock in half cock, but will not in full cock. The iron butt plate and trigger guard have that dark aged look to them, with the butt plate being quite rusted. The number 55 is stamped into the side plate and trigger guard, possibly an assembly number when this musket was converted to percussion. The original musket stock has been cut down to terminate at the rear barrel band. The actual overall length is 26 1/2". The cut down stock has the same dark appearance as the rest of the gun. There is an iron band that has been placed in the wrist area, as this one has been broken. In addition to the band several nails have been used to piece the stock back together. There is wood loss on the left side of the stock above the remaining band spring. The initials WTD are carved into the right side of the stock comb. There is not an arsenal letter stamped into the stock of this old musket, but I'm pretty sure it's a Confederate conversion. It looks to have spent considerable time in a barn or out building judging by the condition. Here's an opportunity to own a musket manufactured by the country's first state owned firearms factory, one that likely saw service during the war of 1812, possibly the Mexican American War and almost surely the Civil War.
Shipping Weight:
5 lbs
Item # AA3230
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