20,601 breech loading percussion carbines were manufactured by Starr Arms Co. of Younkers, New York, during the Civil War. Many were issued to cavalry units fighting in the West during the Civil War. When used with proper cartridges, the Starr is arguably one of the best breech loading percussion designs of the era. After being the third most important supplier of revolvers and fifth main supplier of carbines during the Civil War, Starr Arms Co. closed after the war like many other firearms companies due to the sharp decline in government spending on munitions and the plethora of surplus firearms on the open market. This example has a blade front sight; notch and folding leaf rear sight; saddle ring on the left side of the action; the standard Starr address and patent markings on the barrel, upper tang, and lock; and brass fittings.

Very good with dark brown patina over most of the iron surfaces and dark aged patina on the brass. There is some small patches of pitting. The re-oiled wood is fair with scratches and dings throughout, a partially repaired, filled in, piece at the toe, and separation at the wrist. It is mechanically fine and has mostly crisp markings.