Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine manufactured by the Springfield Armory circa 1856. The Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine was designed to be used as a compact carbine with the stock attached or a pistol with the stock removed. The detachable stock enabled the pistol-carbine to be easily carried in saddle pommel holsters. In addition to the detachable stock, the Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine had a number of distinctive features including: (1) a 12-inch rifled barrel chambered for the same .58 caliber expanding base bullet used in rifle-muskets, (2) folding leaf rear sights graduated for 100-400 yards, (3) swivel mounted ramrod with cupped head (4) bolster clean-out screw and (5) Maynard tape primer. Sling swivels were mounted on the barrel band and detachable stock and a carbine sling ring was mounted on the buttcap. The barrel, lock, back strap and ramrod were polished 'National Armory Bright'. The forearm cap, barrel band, trigger guard, butt cap, stock yoke, and buttplate are brass. The pistol stock and detachable stock are oil-finished American walnut. This pistol has the matching assembly numbers "9" stamped on the underside of the stock yoke and back of the buttcap. The lock plate is dated "1856" and the barrel is dated "1855". The Maynard tape primer magazine door is stamped with the Springfield Eagle/Shield motif. "U.S./SPRINGFIELD' is roll-stamped in two lines on the front of the lock plate. The left side of the barrel flat is stamped with small "V/P/ Eagle-Head" proof and inspection marks. Traces of an oval Ordnance final inspection stamp are visible on the left stock flat. "U.S." is stamped on the buttplate heel. Springfield Armory manufactured 4,021 Model 1855 Pistol-Carbines between 1855 and 1857. Nearly all of these carbines were issued to cavalry and dragoon regiments on the pre-Civil War frontier. A few Model 1855 Pistol-Carbines remained in service at the start of the Civil War. The Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine is one of only three handguns ever manufactured by the Springfield Armory. It is unusual to encounter a Pistol-Carbine with matching assembly numbers on the stock and pistol.

Very fine. The pistol has been professionally polished and the stock has been refinished. The steel components have a smooth, National Armory Bright style finish with no pitting, sharp edges and clear markings. The Maynard Tape Primer is complete and functional with clear markings on the magazine door. The brass furniture has been polished but has developed a good looking patina. The stock is in very good condition with sharp edges on the flats and barrel channel and no significant handling marks. The action is tight and functions well. This is an attractive example of the unique and important Springfield Model 1855 Pistol Carbine.