Designed by Gilbert Smith, the production of this carbine was almost entirely consumed by government contracts, with limited numbers going to the civilian market. Standard three sets of markings on the left side of the frame "MANUFACTURED BY / AM'N M'CH'N. WKS / SPRINGFIELD MASS", agents' names "ADDRESS / POULTNEY & TRIMBLE / BALTIMORE U.S.A." and "SMITH'S PATENT / JUNE 23, 1857" under the sling ring bar. Dovetail front sight, (broken and missing blade), and short ladder type adjustable leaf rear sight. The left side barrel flat is marked with a "L.F.R." at the breech. Breech loading action with barrel release latch inside the trigger guard, freeing the barrel to pivot downward. Casehardened hammer and action with saddle ring bar on the left side, ring missing. Smooth straight grip walnut stock with clear "JH" inspectors cartouche on the left wrist, and a steel buttplate.

Fine. The barrel retains approximately half of a strong blue/brown patina that may clean much better. Latch spring on top of barrel is apparently weak and has a fine blacksmith riveted support. The receiver retains strong case colors in the protected areas, mostly on right side, with balance a mottled silver/gray patina. The trigger guard retains about half of the faded original thinning blue. The stock has a hairline crack in left side of the wrist, otherwise wood is sound with a few minor nicks and gouges in forearm and light handling and storage marks on the stock with a crisp cartouche and it retains 30% plus original finish under an old pleasant hand worn patina. All the markings are clear. Mechanics are fine.