Original British P-1853 Enfield 3rd Model Percussion Rifle dated 1860 – V.R. & New Zealand Marked Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Offered here is a very nice example of the 3rd Model Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle Musket, with brass butt plate, trigger guard and nose cap. The three steel barrel bands are held on with screw pressure, as typical of the 3rd model, and bear British Proof marks. The lock is marked 1860 / ENFIELD below the cap bolster, indicating manufacture at the Royal Small Arms Factory at Enfield Lock, where the P-1853 was designed. It is also marked with a QUEEN’S CROWN / V. R. to the rear of the hammer. This indicates military production for the British empire. There is also the correct “lock viewer’s mark” to the right of the date.

The barrel bears another CROWN / VR marking in addition to a CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS proof indicating manufacture in Birmingham, England. There is another proof below these, most likely from RSAF Enfield during assembly. There are traces of the original stock rondel stamping on the right side of the butt stock, which looks to be the correct “ENFIELD” stamping. The most interesting marking however is definitely the NZ / 1132 surcharge on the butt plate tang, indicating service in New Zealand.

The wood is complete and in very good shape, with no structural issues and a lovely aged patina. There is some past wood worm damage in areas, particularly around the lock area, but it looks to be mostly confined to the surface. There is also some on the butt stock, but it does not look to have major compromised the structural integrity. The sight slide is present, and the bands tighten properly. The the bore still shows faint rifling, but there is also a lot of oxidation and fouling, so it is faint. Lock is functional, holding at half cock and firing at full. Both sling swivels are present and in good shape.

A great chance to pick up a nice honestly used British-Issued P-1853 Rifled Musket, issued for use in New Zealand. Ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1860
Caliber: .58 inches
Ammunition Type: .577 Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Barrel Length: 39 inches 
Overall Length: 55 inches
Action: Side Action Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.