Original British P-1864 Snider type Breech Loading Rifle- Cleaned and Complete Condition Original Items

Original Item: Jacob Snider, an American from New York, developed this breech loading system for the P-1853 Enfield, the most prolific imported Percussion rifle in use by both the North and South during the U.S. Civil War. When the British Board of Ordnance appointed a Select Committee in 1864 the Snider system was swiftly adopted with the first breech loaders being issued in 1865 to British forces. Improved in 1867 by the use of Colonel Boxer’s center fire brass bodied cartridge, the rifle was used very effectively in the Abyssinian Campaign of 1868. The system utilized a hinged breech block with an internal firing pin assembly that permitted the use of a self contained cartridge of lead bullet in cardboard, and, after 1867, brass casing. This highly efficient conversion system prolonged the active life of the P-1853 rifles up until 1871 when the Martini System was adopted. Snider rifles saw continued use throughout the Empire but were officially obsoleted by the late 1880s.

These examples are complete and all original, each has the following features; 39″ barrel with the signatures three steel bands, brass trigger guard, cleaning rod, functioning lock with nipple, adjustable ladder-back sight, and brass butt plate. Overall condition good to very good. A very rare opportunity to own a significant piece of military history that greatly affected wars on three continents.

These weapons are from our 2003 acquisition of the Nepal Royal Arsenal. Date and origin of manufacture are unknown. We suspect they were manufactured in Nepal under British War Department supervision. Although it is possible that they were unmarked British Manufacture which the Nepalese then made their own.

The gun photographed is a typical example not the gun you will get, however, you will get one in similar or better condition.

*Note: Although, each rifle has been cleaned and resorted to mechanically functioning condition; it does not mean that IMA recommends these for shooting. In fact, anyone interested in shooting this 150+ year-old weapon should have his gun evaluated and prepared by a licensed gunsmith. IMA does not guarantee the operational function and does not recommend anyone attempt shooting this weapon.

Specifications: 

Years of Manufacture: 1860s – 1870s
Caliber: .58 inches
Ammunition Type: .577 Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: About 36 inches – varies
Overall Length: About 54 inches – varies
Action: Side Action Lock
Feed System: Side Hinge Rotating Breech block

NOTE: “Cleaned and Complete” antique guns are often cleaned to order, so these may not be available for same-day expedited shipping. International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these.