Only 5,804-6,703 of these cavalry variants of the Model 1847 musketoon were manufactured in the late 1840s and 1850s. Genuine cavalry musketoons are easily identified by the fact the forend extends past the front barrel band, swivel ramrods, long saddle ring bar and ring on the left side, and the lack of sling swivels, rear band springs, and bayonet mounts. They were not found particularly well suited for cavalry use due to the tendency of the large musket balls to slide forward in the bore while riding leading to potentially dangerous gaps at the breech or even the loads fully falling out of the barrel. Tighter patching would likely have helped but would have been difficult on horseback. They were also known to be fairly inaccurate due to their smoothbores, short barrel lengths, and general lack of precise sights. Some were rifled to accept Minie balls, but this example and many others were not. Some of the cavalry models were also altered for use by artillery units who were already issued another variant of the Model 1847. For dismounted use, they likely performed as well as the other short barreled smoothbores of the era, and would have been particularly deadly when used with buck and ball loads. Their short overall length would have made them far more practical than the full sized muskets for artillery and sapper use. This example has the standard markings and features and is dated "1851" at the tail of the lock.

Good as partially refinished. The barrel and lock have been cleaned to a light gray patina and has traces of mild pitting that has been buffed. The ramrod has moderate overall pitting. The brass has an aged patina. The refinished stock has a crisp "ESA" cartouche and minor handling and storage marks. The forend has had some repairs to the wood forward of the center band. The lock functions fine and the markings are crisp.