1858 Pattern Indian Issue Three Band Musket Single Shot

~ 1858 Pattern Indian Issue Three Band Musket ~

Converted from a Pattern 1853 Enfield rifle-musket in India, this item was part of an original issue of 10,000 weapons sold by the British Government to the East Indian Company in 1856. Pattern 1853 Enfield rifle-muskets were a contributory cause of the Indian Mutiny (1857-1859) because of the belief that animal fat had been incorporated in the grease for the cartridges. After the Mutiny, most Indian troops were issued with smooth-bore muskets which at the same time were to look similar to Enfield rifles. In this case the original rifling was bored out and a locally-made ramrod fitted. Also, a simple fixed backsight replaced the graduated rear sight of the Enfield.

~ Dimensions ~

The muskets total length is 124 cm (48.75 inches) and the barrel is 84 cm (33 inches) long.

The piece weighs 3.1 Kg.

~ Condition ~

The piece is in good order. The lock half cocks, cocks and releases with a decent spring.

ref. GS03481F8  PQBCDX4LCB34LC1