This rifle-musket would have been manufactured at the Richmond Armory using materials and machinery captured in April 1861 from the Harper's Ferry Armory. Since the Maynard primer system used on U.S. Model 1855 rifle-muskets proved less reliable and more difficult to manufacture, the Confederates simple used the "humpback" lock plate and distinctive hammer without Maynard system components. They also skipped the patch box to speed production and save materials. This example has U.S. proofmarks on the barrel and iron fittings likely captured as finished or semi-finished parts from Harper's Ferry. The lock has "C.S." visible near the front and a faint 1860s date at the tail. The top of the comb just ahead of the "U.S." marked buttplate tang has a "35" stamp. It also has blade front and three leaf rear sights like the Model 1855 and comes with a "U.S." marked socket bayonet.

Good as replated. It has 75% of the old post-war nickel plated finish remaining on the rifle and bayonet. They have turned a tin tone over most of the surfaces, but there are bright areas near the muzzle where the bayonet has been fitted and under the barrel bands. The flaked areas have gray and dark brown patina along with some mild pitting and oxidation. The stock is very good with mild wear including some small chips and dings. It is mechanically excellent. This is a solid example of the very hard to find Richmond Armory rifle-musket.