Only 1,011 of the W.G. Ward and Bethel Burton designed rifles were manufactured by Springfield Armory in 1871 and then sent West for testing against the elements and harsh nature of the battles during the Indian War era. The Model 1871 Ward-Burton is significant as the first metallic cartridge bolt action rifle issued by the U.S. Army and the first bolt action manufactured at a U.S. armory. It has the standard bayonet stud/blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, "U.S./SPRINGFIELD 1871" on the left side of the receiver, "WARD.BURTON. PATENT./DEC.20.1859. FEB.21.1871" on top of the bolt cover, a smooth straight wrist stock with "JWK" and "ESA" cartouches on the left, a slotted metal ramrod, sling swivels, and a "US" marked buttplate. It is fitted with a leather sling. The rifle is pictured in Man at Arms- Sept/Oct 1987 - "The Model 1871 Ward-Burton" , American Rifleman - Jan., 2006 - "Something Different - The Ward-Burton" , and "U.S. Military Bolt Action Rifles" pages 22-26 by Bruce Canfield. Provenance: Bruce Canfield collection.

Fine with brown patina forming along the barrel, a dark gray blend of 30% faded original case colors and patina on the receiver, and lighter gray patina on the balance. There are some small marks and scratches throughout. The stock is also fine and has fine legible cartouches, scatted dings and scrapes, some dents at the edges, and smooth oil finish. Mechanically excellent.