The U.S. War Department contracted with independent gun makers, including the Leonards, to produce Model 1808 muskets due to fears of entanglement with the warring nations of England and France. Only half of the contracted 8500 muskets were delivered, but the host of makers lends to the collectability of these rifles with variations in markings and some features from maker to maker. This example was manufactured by Rudolph and Charles Leonard of Canton, Massachusetts between 1808 and 1814; this is one of the approximately 4,208 muskets they delivered on contract. These muskets were the Harpers Ferry pattern except they had a straighter hammer spur (top jaw guide) as on the Springfield models. The lock plate is marked "CANTON" in a vertical curve behind the hammer and "R&C LEONARD" is marked ahead of the hammer. The upper barrel band has a brass front sight blade, and the bayonet lug is mounted on the bottom of the barrel. The barrel is stamped with "P" "M" "PC" in cartouche and "1814" at the breech. It is fitted with a full length, walnut stock secured by three barrel bands with sling swivels mounted to the middle band and the front of the trigger guard.

Very good, original flintlock. The musket has an untouched, smooth, dark patina with some minor flash pitting. Some material is missing at the muzzle. The stock is fine with some minor handling marks, a couple long hairline cracks, and "XVII" hand marked on the left side of the buttstock. Mechanically fine.