Harper's Ferry Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle, 1851-Dated Percussion Muzzleloader, Brass Mounted, 32 in Barrel
This appears to be an authentic Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle made at Harpers Ferry in 1851, with period-correct markings and a classic brass-mounted configuration. The lockplate is marked "HARPERS / FERRY / 1851" with an eagle over US, and the rifle retains its full-length walnut stock, iron sights, and steel trumpet-head ramrod. The bore at the crown measures about 0.576 in, suggesting a possible Civil War–era conversion to .58 caliber for the Minie ball, and the rifle likely saw refurbishment and refinishing at some point.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: There are signs of wear and handling. The metal shows scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss. The stock has dents and dings.
What's Included
- Harper's Ferry Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle (1851-dated)
- Steel trumpet/tulip-head ramrod
- Front and rear sling swivels
The rifle is clearly identified by its lockplate marked "HARPERS / FERRY / 1851" with an eagle over US ahead of the hammer. Additional proof and inspection marks include "WW" over "P" and an eagle over "US." The toe plate is stamped "G 51," and the patchbox lid carries personalized initials "J.A.B." The patchbox interior features two circular compartments.
Configuration is true to the pattern: a single-shot, muzzle-loading percussion action with a rounded bolster, a 32 in steel rifled barrel, and iron sights consisting of a small blade front and a folding leaf rear sight with ladder. Capacity is 1 round, and no bayonet lug is observed. Length of pull measures 13.5 in.
The furniture suite is brass, including the buttplate, patchbox, trigger guard, sideplate, toe plate, two bands, and a long nosecap. The full-length walnut stock has a straight comb. A steel trumpet/tulip-head ramrod and front and rear sling swivels are present.
The bore at the crown measures approximately 0.576 in, which could indicate a period conversion to .58 caliber to accept the Minie ball during the American Civil War. This example appears authentic to the Model 1841 pattern and was made in 1851. It likely was refurbished and refinished at some point in its life.