S. Norris and W.T. Clement U.S. Model 1861 Rifled Musket 40″ Percussion .58
SOLD FOR: $1,331.00
LSB#: LSB251205WO013
Make: S. Norris and W.T. Clement , of Springfield, Mass.
Model: 1861 Rifle Musket
Serial#: 221
Year of Manufacture: Circa Early 1860s
Caliber: .58 Caliber
Action Type: Percussion, Muzzle Loading, Black Powder
Markings: The lock plate is marked “S.N. & W.T.C. for Massachusetts” “1863”. The top of the barrel is marked “1864” The left side of the barrel has US proofmarks. The right side of the bands are marked “U” The left flat of the chamber is marked “221”
Barrel Length: 40″
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade integral to a rectangular block at the muzzle. The rear sight is a multi position folding leaf sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The stock is one piece walnut with lock plate, straight grip, straight comb, metal buttplate, three barrel bands with springs, sling ring in the bottom of the middle band, nose cap, cutout for the included ramrod, sling ring in the front of the trigger guard. The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate. There are scratches, compression dents, and other handling wear typical of a Civil War rifle. There are numerous chips along the barrel and ramrod channels. There are two inspectors’ cartouches visible on the left side of the stock. There are no cracks. The stock rates in Very Good condition for an antique.
Type of Finish: Bright
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. The rifling is well defined. There is minor pitting and wear throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10 for an antique.
Overall Condition: The barrel and other metal parts are worn to patina with corrosion staining throughout. There are scratches and nicks typical of a Civil War era relic. Overall this rifle is in Good to Very Good condition for an antique.
Mechanics: The hammer locks. The trigger is crisp. The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: This rifle comes with its installed ram rod
Our Assessment: The S. Norris and W.T. Clement U.S. Model 1861 Rifle Musket is a tangible product of the immense industrial effort that armed Union forces during the American Civil War. Contracted out to makers in Springfield, Massachusetts, Norris and Clement were among the firms tasked with supplementing federal armories to meet wartime demand. Dated 1863 on the lock and 1864 on the barrel, this example falls squarely within the most intense years of the conflict. The lock plate markings, U marked barrel bands, and visible U.S. proofs affirm its martial character, while the serial number 221 on the left flat of the chamber reflects early production within this contract range. With its 40 inch barrel and three band configuration, it retains the unmistakable profile of the standard infantry arm carried from Gettysburg to the trenches before Petersburg.
Chambered in .58 caliber and designed for use with the Minié ball, the Model 1861 represented a decisive advancement in infantry firepower. The .58 caliber rifled musket offered dramatically improved range and accuracy over earlier smoothbores, fundamentally altering battlefield tactics during the 1860s. The bore on this rifle is gray with well defined rifling, showing minor pitting and age wear consistent with service and long term storage. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6 out of 10 for an antique, remaining clearly rifled and identifiable.
The one piece walnut stock bears the expected handling marks of a Civil War arm, with scratches, compression dents, and scattered chips along the barrel and ramrod channels. Two inspector cartouches remain visible on the left side of the stock, adding to its authenticity and historical appeal. The metal surfaces have aged to a natural patina with areas of corrosion staining consistent with a 160 year old service rifle. Mechanically, the hammer locks securely, the trigger is crisp, and the action functions correctly. Complete with its ramrod, this Norris and Clement Model 1861 stands as a compelling survivor from America’s defining conflict. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF