1853 1862 Enfield

[therifleman]

Hello,

I just purchased this rifle. I know little about 1853 Enfields except that it was the second most common firearm in the US Civil War. I have done a small bit of research. I was just looking for a little help on interpreting the markings on this gun. I was wondering if it might have been used in the Civil War and if so, which side?

Lockplate is standard, marked 1862/TOWER. Birmingham manufacture?




25 25 proofs


I found this pretty interesting. Right before the first band there is a smoothe indent in the stock. I noticed that when I aimed and one-hand carried the rifle my left index finger fit into it snuggly. It is my belief that this is a result of consistent usage by the owner(s)




Engraved rhombus figure? On the stock.


Buttplate engraved "H?"


Muzzle cap marked 427



The gun also came with a bayonet and scabbard which are not original to the gun as the bayonet does not fit on it. Any info on these would be appreciated as well.



Blade has a number of markings. "CS" below a funny looking indent. Marked "L6," a crown above a "5" and an "E." Also a government arrow above an "R."



scabbard is marked with a "WD" with another funky looking symbol with a "39" below it.



Thanks for the help!

Information

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[therifleman]

Just noticed that under the stock by the trigger guard is also marked COOK & SON.

[Jim]

Howdy and welcome to the forum!

I regret that I cannot give you any direct answers. No doubt someone more informed will soon be able too. Give us a little time. This isn't the fastest replying forum out there but some pretty knowledgeable folks peruse here.

One thing I see that is unusual to me. About all the Enfields I've seen have had the more delicate step ladder rear sight. I don't know but suppose it must be a later modification. I know the folks at Springfield were making them different after a year or two of the war.

I can give you some links to look over that might help you.
Enfield bayonets- http://bayonets.com/Priest_1853_proof.pdf
While this page is about authenticizing a repro, there's a lot of original model info in it including the breech proofs you are wondering about. http://www.authentic-campaigner.com/...en/enfauth.htm
This site is a Civil War reenactors forum. A lot of good info on all things Civil War/War Between the States can be found here just by asking- http://www.cwreenactors.com/dcforum/general/6131.html
General 1853 pattern sites...
http://www.rarewinchesters.com/gunro...-enfield.shtml

That should keep you busy for a little while (and me too).