An estimated 43,000 5th Model Burnside carbines were manufactured in 1863-65. The basic design was patented by later first president of the National Rifle Association and Civil War General Ambrose Burnside in 1857, but they were not produced in quantity until after he had already sold his shares in the Bristol Firearms Co. Two of the units initially under his command were armed with Burnside carbines. This carbine has the standard 5th Model markings and features, including matching serial numbers. The most readily identifying feature of this variation is the guide screw visible on the right side of the frame.
Fine overall with 85% plus of the original bright niter blue finish on the breechblock and lever, 70% original case colors fading to smooth gray and brown patina, 50% original blue, some minor discoloration, minor age and storage related wear such as light dings on the fine, reoiled wood and small patches of minor oxidation, and distinct cartouches and other markings. Mechanically excellent.
There are currently no customer product questions on this lot