This carbine was manufactured in 1865 and was part of a 1,001 gun contract with the Ordnance Department. The Palmer Carbine is historically significant as the first bolt-action, metallic cartridge firearm accepted by the Ordnance Department. A quarter turn of the short handle bolt exposes the chamber for loading. The barrel has a half moon front sight and notch rear sight with folding leaf. A sling bar and ring is mounted on the left stock flat. The lock plate is dated "1865" at the tail and stamped: "U.S./E.G. LAMSON. &CO./WINDSOR. VT" at the front. "Wm PALMER/PATENT/DEC. 22. 1863." is stamped on the receiver. There are government inspection markings including "MM" on the barrel and stock flat on the left.

Good with re-oiled wood. The lock has a mottled mix of gray and brown patina and the other components primarily display brown patina. The stock has some small pressure marks and dents, a fairly crisp cartouche, and a faint crack above the tail of the lock. The lock and bolt function fine, and the markings are mostly crisp throughout.