The Smith Carbine was manufactured by the Massachusetts Arms Co., Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts and was one of the most important Federal Cavalry carbines. Designed by Gilbert Smith, the production of this breech loading percussion carbine was almost entirely consumed by government contracts, with limited numbers going to the civilian market. A total of 30,362 Smith Carbines were purchased by the United States during the Civil War. Smith Carbines were considered to be accurate and reliable weapons. This example has the standard three sets of markings on the left side of the frame: "MANUFACTURED BY/MASS ARMS CO./CHICOPEE FALLS.", agents' names "ADDRESS/POULTNEY & TRIMBLE/BALTIMORE U.S.A." and "SMITH'S PATENT/JUNE 23, 1857". The left rear barrel flat is marked with a "LFR" inspector's mark. The left side of the stock wrist is stamped with a boxed "LFR" and an oval "LH" cartouche. Dovetail brass blade front sight and folding leaf rear sight absent of yard markings. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip walnut stock with a steel carbine buttplate.

Very fine. The barrel retains 95% thinning original blue finish. The barrel latch and trigger guard retain 90% original blue finish showing some thinning to a brown. The frame and hammer retain 85% plus slightly muted original case colors. The wood is excellent with some scattered minor handling marks. The cartouches are crisp.