Lorenz Model 1854 .54 Caliber Austrian Percussion Short Rifle, Two-Band Pattern, 42 Inch Barrel
This Austrian Model 1854 Lorenz percussion short rifle is a .54 caliber, two-band short rifle pattern from the 1850s–1860s, a type widely used during the American Civil War. It features a full-length hardwood stock, fixed iron sights, and classic military furniture. As an antique example with period character, it presents well for display and collection.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Poor - Noticeable dirt, stains, significant corrosion or damage.
Bore Fouling: Severe Fouling - Extensive corrosion, pitting, or erosion.
Bore Rifling: Poor Rifling - Rifling heavily worn or filled with fouling or debris.
Specific Condition Notes: There is heavy rusting throughout. The bore is in very bad condition. The ramrod is absent. A screw is missing in the action. The percussion cone/nipple is missing.
This antique is offered for decorative display only and should not be fired.
What’s Included
- Embossed metal powder flask with stag/hunting motif
- Embossed leather powder flask with hunting dog motif
- Brass powder flask with martial flags and cannon motif
Identified as the Austrian M1854 (Lorenz) two-band short rifle variant, this .54 caliber percussion, single-shot, side-lock muzzleloader represents one of the most distributed European military muskets of its era. The 42 inch barrel and two-barrel-band configuration align with the two-band short rifle pattern that saw extensive field use in the mid-19th century.
The rifle retains hallmark military features: a full-length hardwood stock, iron buttplate, flat iron sideplate, and fixed iron sights with a block-style rear sight base and a small front sight at the muzzle. Sling points are present on the middle band and the trigger-guard bow, with a distinct metal nose cap at the fore-end tip and the forward barrel band positioned just behind it.
Period details add character, including carved initials "MA" on the right buttstock. The external hammer and side-lock action reflect the percussion ignition system common to service arms of the 1850s–1860s. The length of pull measures 13.5 inches, consistent with a military stock profile of the period.
This antique example is best suited for display. Noted conditions include heavy rusting, a missing ramrod, a missing action screw, and a missing percussion nipple. As a historical Austrian service short rifle pattern widely encountered during the American Civil War, it offers strong collector interest and a compelling 19th-century profile.