Remington manufactured 12,501 "Harpers Ferry Pattern" rifles, generally known as the Model 1863 "Zouave" rifles. They were manufactured using the same tooling Remington had used to produced 1841s for the military before the war. None are known to have been issued during the war despite their high quality likely because they were non-standard arms. The origin of the "Zouave" nickname remains a mystery though theories abound. It seems likely that the nickname was a marketing ploy when they were sold as surplus after the war and into the 20th century since the Zouave units were among the most colorful units and were widely depicted in period publications. This example has the standard markings and features and is dated "1863" on the lock and barrel.

Very fine overall with 85% plus original finish, some brown patina forming, lightly aging brass, some minor marks and scratches, slight spotting, a tension crack on the left flat, some minor surface chips, and a few darkened spots on the otherwise very fine stock. Mechanically excellent.