Original Civil War Era French Model 1857 Percussion Back Action Rifle by Tulle – Dated 1860 Original Items

Original Item: One Only. This is the typical Continental Rifled Musket that was imported Confederacy just before and during the U.S. Civil War. These were also bought and used by the Union Army in small quantities as described in the book Civil War Guns by William Edwards on page 262. This example is in approximately .69 Caliber and is rifled with a simple V-shaped back sight.

These were usually produced as muskets, but the export trade required rifles, indicating this was possibly made for export to the U.S.. It is fully steel mounted and does bear a maker marking on the lock plate: Mre Imp.ale / de Tulle., indicating manufacture at the French Arsenal located in Tulle. There is also a marking of Mle 1857 on the barrel tang, indicating that this rifle was produced with the rifled barrel, and not converted afterwards. The barrel is 40″ in length and the rifle is 55″ overall. There are some additional markings on the barrel, but they are not clear. There is a faint stock rondel indicating manufacture in NOVEMBRE 1860.

The bore is quite nice, with the 4 groove rifling showing clear lands and grooves, with the usual light peppering from age. Metal surfaces showing old pitting markings overall but in great display shape, having been fully cleaned with a nice gray patina. The highly figured Strasburg walnut wood stock is in great shape, and now looks its best, having been fully cleaned and restored. 

An excellent French-Made and marked percussion rifle from the Civil War Period, ready to display!

Year of Manufacture: 1860
Caliber: .69″
Cartridge Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 40 Inches
Overall Length: 56 Inches
Action type: Back Action 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.