Out of the approximately 950 Model 1839 Paterson carbines produced circa 1838 - 1841 roughly 706 were procured for martial use, with the lions share going to the U.S. Navy and the Republic of Texas. The carbine has 'improvements' consisting of a loading lever on the right side of the frame and round-back, six-shot, cylinder. The carbine has a distinctive, scroll-shaped trigger guard. The cartouched stock is varnished walnut with an iron buttplate. The cylinder, barrel and frame have matching serial numbers. The Colt Paterson Model 1839 Carbine was the most successful of the Colt Paterson firearms.

About good, with a dark brown patina overall and light pitting on most surfaces. No markings are visible on the side of the barrel lug or the cylinder. The loading lever is a well-made contemporary replacement, with scratches on the right side. The stock is in fair condition with small chips on both sides of the upper tang at the junction of the receiver and a faint cartouche. The mechanism has been fitted with replacement parts, and is in need of repair. This is a solid example of a seldom encountered Colt Paterson Improved Model 1839 Carbine.