One of approximately 1,011 manufactured c. 1871 for U.S. military field trials. The U.S. Model 1871 Ward-Burton was the first bolt action centerfire rifle used by the U.S. Military. Bannered script "JWK" (John W. Keene) and oval script "ESA" (Erskine S. Allin) inspection cartouches stamped on the left of the stock. Provenance: The James Frisbie Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Very fine as professionally restored, with all of the finish on the receiver, bolt handle and rear sight, and mostly bright polished surfaces on the rest of the iron components. Stock is fine as sanded and re-oiled, with faint markings and some small dings. Trigger requires extra pulling pressure for functioning, otherwise mechanically fine.