Springfield Armory Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine 58 Cal 12″ Tape Primer Antiqe
SOLD FOR: $1980.55
LSB#: 210218WW06
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1855 Pistol-Carbine
Serial Number: None
Year of Manufacture: 1855
Caliber: .58 Caliber
Action Type: Percussion Pistol with Maynard Tape Primer System
Markings: The lockplate is marked “1855” behind the hammer and “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD” in front of the primer door. The primer door has an American Eagle. The top-rear of the barrel is marked “1855” and “*C.R. NAGLE*”, the left shoulder has “V / P” and eagle’s head. The back of the grip cap is marked “3”. The bottom of the base of the shoulder stock is marked “1 / 1”.
Barrel Length: 12”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an inverted “V” blade integral to a rectangular base. The rear sight is a three position flip up sight. The first is a short “V” notch marked “1”, the second is a “V” notch marked “2”, and the third leaf has a small peep aperture marked “3”, and a “V” notch marked “4”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one-piece smooth walnut with a brass nosecap, barrel band, two sling swivels, and a brass grip cap. The stock has scattered nicks, dings, bruises, scrapes and scratches. There are scattered spots and areas of discoloration. There is a crack through the pistol grip visible on both sides. There is a crack on the right side behind the lock plate that has been repaired with a pin. There is a crack on the right side at the front of the lockplate. The grip rates in about Very Good condition. Attached to the grip is a detachable shoulder stock with a straight comb, inlaid sling swivel, and brass buttplate. The stock has some scuffs, scratches, and some compressions. The top mounting screw is loose and can fall out easily. The stock is shy to the mounting hardware. There is some wear on the corner of the heel under the stock. The sling swivel does not appear original and the swivel base screws look like replacements. The LOP measures 14 3/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has wear mottled tanish with a few scattered faint hairline scratches. Overall, the stock is in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Originally finished Bright
Finish Originality: We see no signs of a new finish being applied.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with worn but visible rifling. There is discoloration and light erosion throughout the bore with scattered spots of more moderate erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 0% of its metal finish. The metal surfaces have scattered erosion and some dark discoloration from previous oxidation. There are some scattered scuffs and scratches. There are a few small areas where light patina is starting The nipple is in surprisingly good shape and the flash-hole is not obstructed. The markings are clear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. Overall, this rifle is in about Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The previously described stock ins included.
Our Assessment: Only 4021 of these Springfield Model 1855 Pistol-Carbines were made and it was the last single shot pistol to be produced for the U.S. military. At the time, it was the smallest .58 caliber pistol used in the army. This pistol-carbine was intended to be used as a pistol on horseback and a carbine on foot. The butt stock was prone to split during the recoil and loosen over time. It had somewhat of an awkward weight and balance, and with help from the Colt revolvers of the time it soon became obsolete. It was one of the only pistols made by Springfield Armory along with the 1817 Flintlock pistol and the M1911 and coupled with the low production numbers make it a great addition to a collection. Please see our photos and good luck!