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 U.S. Ordnance Department. The action is opened by a quarter turn of the handle bolt. The barrel has a small 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.

Very good plus. The metal surfaces primarily display dark, even brown patina, but the main section of the lock also displays light gray patina. The fine stock has some bruising and dents, a crack above the lock, a crisp cartouche, and two small holes near the forend tip. The action functions fine and the markings are distinct.