Guns International #: 102853061
Seller's Inventory #: 5
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Guns International #: 102853061
Category - Antique Rifles - Percussion
- Military Arms
Desirable Mexican-American War 1845 Dated U.S. Springfield Model 1842 Musket
Description: Offered here is a hard to find, fine example of an original 1845 dated Mexican-American War U.S. Springfield Model 1842 percussion musket. A missing piece in many U.S. military arms collections, and a necessary hole as a primary issue shoulder arm! The Model 1842 was the first primary U.S. musket to be manufactured with a percussion lock, and replaced the earlier flintlock muskets of the time. By the 1840s, percussion cap ignition systems, which were more reliable and weather-resistant than flintlocks, were becoming the standard. The Model 1842 saw its first combat during the Mexican-American War between 1846-1848, where its percussion system proved superior in reliability compared to older flintlocks. This desirable example offered, dated 1845, is a prime specimen to have been involved in the conflict. Most surviving examples of Model 1842 muskets seen today are typically bearing manufacturing dates post-dating the Mexican-American War, and the limited surviving examples that do turn up from the proper time period of it are typically in rough shape. Initially produced as a smoothbore musket, many Model 1842 muskets were later modified to have rifled barrels, seeing continued use throughout the Civil War, with this example being an exception in that it remains in its original smoothbore configuration. The edges and markings in this musket remain sharp and defined overall. The lock and barrel tang both have matching “1845” dates, the breech of the barrel has the “V/P” proofs above the eagle head stamp, the lock has the federal eagle motif and Springfield manufacturer marking above its date, the buttplate is “US” marked, what appears to be an “X” carved in the right of the buttstock, and the bottom of the stock at the toe has period initials “HSG” carved in, likely by the soldier who carried it. Besides the typical characteristic handling marks and attractive areas of brown patina/freckling on this old musket, the only flaws of note include a typical minor crack on the left ahead of the rear lock screw and an absent tip on the front band spring, but it otherwise still retains the front barrel band properly. This is a very attic fresh untouched example, a proper time capsule of the Mexican-American War. As an antique, this can ship directly to your doorstep! Price: $2,500.00 Antique: Yes Rifle Caliber: .69 Manufacturer: U.S. Springfield Armory Model: 1842 Barrel Length: 42 inches Condition: 7.5 Stock: Walnut Finish: Bright Manufacture Date: 1845 Contact Seller |
Guns International #: 102853061
Seller's Inventory #: 5
Guns International #: 102853061
Seller's Inventory #: 5