The so called "Model 1863 Zouave" rifles were manufactured by the Remington Arms Co. during the Civil War under contract with the U.S. Ordnance Department. The design was referred to officially as the "Harpers Ferry Pattern Rifle" and is a mix of Model 1841 "Mississippi" rifle and later U.S. martial model features. It is widely believed they were simply put into storage during the war and were sold as surplus after the war. Many were likely used as hunting arms and for defense by settlers in the late 19th century. They are certainly capable rifles and are widely considered to be the best designed and highest quality U.S. martial percussion shoulder weapons despite seeing no official military use. This example has three-groove rifling, a blade front sight, a saber bayonet lug on the right, a three leaf rear sight, brass fittings, standard U.S. inspection markings, "1863" on the barrel at the breech and tail of the lock, the eagle and shield motif over "U.S." and "REMINGTON'S/ILION, N.Y." on the center of the lock, and "U.S." on the buttplate. The patch box contains a spare nipple.

Fine. The rifle retains 80% of the lightly fading original blue finish, traces of faded case colors, fairly bright brass parts with light patination, and some slight spotting and marks throughout as well as some vice marks visible at the breech. The stock is also fine with scattered marks, scratches, and chips overall from handling and storage. The rifle appears to have seen little if any use. It is mechanically excellent and has distinct markings.