Joslyn Fire Arms 1864 Carbine 52 Rimfire Single-Shot Rifle, 1862-64 Antique

SOLD FOR: $1001.59

LSB#: 210930TP89

Make: Springfield Armory

Model: 1864 Carbine

Serial Number: 662

Year of Manufacture: 1862-1864

Caliber: .52 Rimfire

Action Type: Pivoting breech-block single-shot rimfire carbine.

Markings: The rear of the breechblock is marked “B.F. JOSLYN’S PATENT / OCT 8th 1861 JUNE 24TH 1862” and the serial number, “662”. The lock plate is marked “JOSLYN FIRE ARMS CO / STONINGTON / CONN”.

Barrel Length: 22”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to a base that is fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a dual leaf flip-up v-notch in a base that is dovetailed into the barrel.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one-piece smooth walnut with a brass butt plate, straight comb, straight grip, single brass barrel band, and a cavalry bar with lanyard loop. There are light nicks and dings scattered about, but most notable on the comb and upper edges of the forend. The LOP measures 14 1/4? from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. The plate has a few light nicks and dings. Overall, the stock rates in Good-to-Very Good condition, as Antique.

Type of Finish: Bright

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is well-defined. There is no erosion, but minor stubborn fouling can be seen throughout.

Overall Condition: This rifle is in the white, the steel is bright. There are scattered light nicks and dings as well as minor surface oxidation throughout. The breechblock has scattered light spots of surface oxidation as well as a few minor nicks in spots. Screws are lightly tool marked but all have usable slots. Markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine-plus condition, as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Believed to be a post-war conversion rifle for a very long time, new information discovered tells us that this Joslyn rifle was indeed patented/designed/fabricated in the later years of the Civil War, and is the first breech-loading cartridge rifle made in large quantities—substantial is entirely relative of course, and only 3,007 pieces were made by Springfield Armory. Joslyn rifles were made by the eponymous company for commercial sales, as is the case with the example. Good luck and happy bidding!