This is a scarce and early production Second Model Burnside Carbine manufactured by the Bristol Firearms Company of Bristol, Rhode Island. The Bristol Firearms Company manufactured about 2,000 Second Model Burnside Carbines between 1860 and 1862. Some of these carbines were used by the 1st Rhode Island Infantry at the battle of Bull Run and the remainder were issued to Federal cavalry regiments including the 1st U.S. Cavalry. Nearly all of the Second Model Burnside Carbines saw Civil War service. The barrel of this rifle has a two-position rear sight and the left side of the receiver is fitted with a sling bar and ring. The top of the receiver is roll-stamped "BURNSIDE'S/PATENT/MARCH 25th/1856.", the right side of the lock plate is marked "BRISTOL FIREARM CO." and the right side of the breech block latch is marked "G.P. FOSTER PAT/APRIL 10th 1860". The serial number is marked on the receiver, breech block, and barrel. The stock is marked with two cartouches on the wrist and is fitted with a sling swivel.

Fair. Overall the carbine has an artificial brown finish with some minor pitting. The revarnished stock has some minor pressure dents but has clearly visible cartouches. Mechanically functions, but lever retention spring is broken. These are extremely rare in any condition!