The Model 1817 is an improved version of the Model 1814 and was manufactured by several contractors based on patterns from the Harpers Ferry Armory. 3,000 were manufactured by Robert and John D. Johnson in 1824 to 1827 following Robert Johnson's success in manufacturing 5,000 in 1821 to 1823. They were used by American riflemen in various conflicts with Native Americans, the Mexican-American War, and even into the Civil War, especially by the Confederacy. This piece has the standard fixed sights and inspection markings, "U.S/R.&J.D.JOHNSON" straight at the center of the lock, "1825/MIDDN CONN" in an arch at the tail of the lock, "1825" on the barrel tang, and Joseph Weatherhead's "JW" cartouche on the left flat.

Very fine with 80% plus original brown finish remaining on the barrel, trigger guard, patch box, and buttplate. Fairly bright polished barrel bands and side plate with light patination, 75% dark original case colors visible on the lock, and significant nitre blue visible on the trigger. The stock is also very fine and has some small nicks and scratches, slight chips, small hairline cracks visible at the nose of the lock and rear lock screw and some bruising. Mechanically excellent.