The Model 1817 rifles, referred to as "common rifles" to distinguish them from the Hall breech loading rifles, were produced by multiple firearms makers. This example was produced by Robert Johnson's firm of Middleton, Connecticut, and is thus marked "R. JOHNSON" in an upward arc above an eagle on the lock plate with "U" on one side and "S" on the other; "MIDDN CONN." is in a downward arc below the eagle. The date "1824" is horizontal at the rear of the lock plate and on the barrel tang. Robert Johnson had several contracts for making these rifles. His first contract was completed in 1823 and a second contract was issued in December of that year to him and John D. Johnson, whose relationship has not been established. This rifle would be early in the contract before the new lock plate die was made reflecting the addition of J.D. Johnson to the firm. Only a few of these transition rifles are known. The top of the barrel is marked "US / JM / P". The "P" is in a toothed edge circle. The barrel is equipped with a fixed blade front sight and a dovetailed notch rear sight. The nearly full length stock is secured by three barrel bands (front band is double and the middle has a sling swivel) and has a "JN" stamp and cartouche and an oval patch box with a brown finish. Additional features include the elongated trigger guard tang with a sling swivel and the removable brass flash pan. Many of these rifles were converted and used during the Civil War whereas this example remains in its original form. It includes an iron ramrod with brass tip.

Fine. The rifle displays a mixture of original brown finish and brown patina across most of the surfaces and has traces of the original case colors on the lock plate. There is some oxidation and pitting especially on the buttplate. The stock is very fine with some minor dings and scrapes. Mechanically fine with mostly crisp markings. Both a fine and solid representative example of this primary issue U.S. martial longarm!