Manufactured from 1863 to 1865 the Burnside breech-loading carbine was one of the most important and widely issued Civil War Federal cavalry carbines. This example of a 5th Model Burnside Carbine has the noticeable guide screw in the center of the right frame that allows smoother operation of the breech as it rides in the corresponding curved groove in the breechblock. The carbine has pinched front and two leaf rear sights and a saddle bar with ring mounted on the left side of the receiver. The top of the barrel is marked "CAST STEEL 1864" ahead of the rear sight, the top of the receiver is marked "BURNSIDE PATENT/MODEL OF 1864" and the lock plate is marked "BURNSIDE RIFLE CO./PROVIDENCE=R.I." Most of the components have small letter inspector stamps. The breechblock is numbered to the gun. Smooth forearm and straight grip stock with two clear cartouches stamped on the left side of the wrist.

Very fine. The barrel retains 70% thinned original blue finish and the breechblock, lever and tangs retain 60% original blue finish. The frame, hammer, lock and buttplate retain 75% plus vivid original case colors. There is some minor flash type pitting. The wood is excellent with a few deep pressure dents on the forearm and some scattered minor handling marks overall. The cartouches are crisp. Mechanically excellent.