The Jenks-Merrill carbine was altered by James H. Merrill of Baltimore, Maryland, circa 1858 to 1860 with a total of only 300 made. This is a single shot percussion breechloader that is loaded by pulling up and back on the breech lever device which is secured by an oval latch that engages the rear sight. The breech action is identical in style and operation to the Merrill carbines. Conventional Jenks carbines were sent to Merrill in Baltimore for alteration to his system for testing of the practicality and ease of use of the Merrill type combustible cartridge as opposed to the loose powder and ball of the Jenks system. The top of the breech lever is marked " J.H. MERRILL BALTO. / PAT. JULY. 1858.", the lock behind the hammer is marked "N.P. AMES / SPRINGFIELD / MASS." and the top of the barrel at the breech is marked faintly "W. JENKS / USN / RC / P / 1845 or 43". Iron parts are brown with a brass trigger guard with a saddle ring mounted on the lower tang, brass barrel bands (2) and a brass buttplate. The front sight is a blade integral to the front barrel band and the rear sight has three folding leafs graduated to 500 yards. Full one piece straight grip stock.

Fine. All metal and brass surfaces have been covered with a protective coat of lacquer. The barrel retains most of the original brown finish while the remaining surfaces have a dark smooth patina. The brass retains most of the polished appearance. The stock is very good with scattered minor dents, dings and scratches associated with a carbine of this age. Except noted above, the markings are readable. Mechanically fine.