Maynard Saddlering Carbine .50 Caliber Massachusetts Arms Co. 20” Civil War
SOLD FOR: $1,450.00
LSB#: WY250128SA003
Make: Massachusetts Arms Co.
Model: Maynard Saddlering Carbine
Serial Number: 16134
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1863-1865 (Civil War Era, Antique)
Caliber: .50 Caliber Maynard Cartridge
Action Type: Single Shot, Breechloading Lever-Activated Falling Block
Barrel Length: 20”
Sights / Optics: The rear sight is an articulating V-notch with three different elevation settings, allowing the shooter to flip the sight blade to adjust for different distances. The front sight is a fixed blade.
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “EDWARD MAYNARD / PATENTEE/ MAY 27. 1851. / DEC 6. 1859.” The right side of the frame is marked “MANUFACTURED BY MASS. ARMS CO. CHICOPEE FALLS.” The left side of the chamber is marked with an “S,” possibly a government inspector’s stamp. The stock bears two visible cartouches on the left side, indicating military acceptance during the Civil War.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The original military walnut stock is solid with visible cartouches, showing expected handling marks and dings from military use. The saddle ring is attached to a metal bar mounted to the frame, allowing mounted cavalry troops to secure the carbine to a saddle without fear of losing it during movement.
Type of Finish: Originally Blued, Now Worn to White
Finish Originality: Original, with all finish worn to a natural white patina
Bore Condition: The bore is dark with observable rifling, showing light erosion and corrosion from black powder use. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10, and with proper cleaning, it should still be an effective shooter.
Ignition System & Unique Breechloading Design:
One of the most unique features of the Maynard Carbine is its breechloading system, which was far ahead of its time during the Civil War. Unlike most muzzleloaders of the period, the Maynard used a self-contained brass cartridge that held both powder and projectile. The shooter would pull down the underlever, opening the falling-block breech to insert a Maynard cartridge. Once loaded, the shooter would place a percussion cap on the nipple, which ignited the charge upon firing.
This system offered a major advantage in reload speed over traditional muzzleloaders, allowing cavalrymen to fire multiple shots more efficiently without having to load from the muzzle. The brass cartridge cases could be reloaded and reused, which was a revolutionary concept for its time. However, lack of waterproofing in the cartridges led to some reliability concerns in wet conditions.
Overall Condition: The carbine retains no original finish, with all surfaces worn to a natural white patina. The frame, barrel, and hardware show expected age-related wear, but the markings remain clear and legible. The stock shows handling wear but remains structurally solid.
Mechanics: The falling-block action functions correctly, with the lever opening and closing smoothly. The hammer engages and releases properly, and the breech locks securely when closed. We did not fire this rifle. As with all antique firearms, a thorough inspection is recommended before operation.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This carbine comes with 45 rounds of ammunition and five extra empty Maynard cartridge casings, making it an excellent candidate for shooting or historical demonstration. Ammo ships separately.
Our Assessment: The Maynard Saddlering Carbine was a cutting-edge breechloader during the American Civil War, offering faster reload times, superior accuracy, and innovative brass cartridges that could be reused. Manufactured by Massachusetts Arms Co., these carbines were issued to Union cavalry units, making them a significant part of Civil War firearms history.
This particular example, serial number 16134, retains all original markings, a functional action, and a well-preserved stock with visible cartouches. The bore, while showing expected black powder wear, remains serviceable for shooting. With its included ammunition and extra casings, this Maynard is more than just a collectible—it’s ready for the range with proper black powder loads.
For Civil War collectors, black powder shooters, and antique firearm enthusiasts, this Maynard Saddlering Carbine is a prime example of one of the most advanced firearms of its time. Whether displayed as a historical artifact, used for black powder shooting, or added to a collection of 19th-century military arms, this rifle is a true representation of Civil War-era innovation and craftsmanship. So bid high and bid firm. Please take a look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
