This percussion rifle has the typical features of the type of Whitworth rifles used by Confederate troops during the Civil War. It is estimated that only about 250 of these rifles were made for the Confederate Army. The Confederates used the rifles as sniper rifles and the Whitworth was probably the first military sniper rifle. They were reportedly accurate up to 1800 yards. Union General Sedgwick fell victim to a head shot from a sniper using a Whitworth rifle on May 8, 1864 delaying the battle at Spotsylvania which was eventually won by General Lee. Shortly before General Sedgwick was killed he scolded some of his men for ducking gun fire, telling them that "they couldn't hit an elephant at this distance". How wrong he was. The rifle features include a 33 inch barrel, two Enfield pattern barrel bands, blade front sight adjustable for windage and a plain stock which extends to within a short distance of the muzzle. According to firearms historian DeWitts Bailey, the historical record indicates that most of the Whitworth rifles used by the Confederates were manufactured prior to the spring of 1862. The serial number for this rifle falls into the late 1861 to mid-1862 production run. The actual extent to which these rifles were used by Confederate troops is a matter of historical debate. This rifle is marked "WHITWORTH PATENT" on top of the barrel near the breech, with the serial number and various British proofs on the left side. The front barrel band has a sling swivel and bayonet lug. Fold down rear sight graduated to 4 degrees on the left and 1,000 yards on the right. The lock plate is marked with a crown over "W" behind the hammer and "WHITWORTH" in front of the hammer. Straight grip stock with buttstock sling swivel and steel forend cap. Complete with a steel ramrod with slotted head with centric rings. Included is a 1971 dated article written by DeWitts Bailey examining the history of the Whitworth rifle.

Fair. All metal surfaces exhibit a dark gray patina over light pitting and have a coat of lacquer. The freshened stock is very good with some minor to moderate dings, dents, gouges and scratches, with a few large gouges. Mechanically fine. The markings are clear.