This is an example of a Civil War era Ballard rifle by Ball & Williams. It has the two-piece split breechblock. The barrel is fitted with a dovetailed brass blade front and folding two leaf rear sights. The serial number is marked on the top flat of the barrel and receiver at the breech, and ahead of that is marked "No44". The left side of the receiver is marked "MERWIN & BRAY, AGT'S/NEW YORK" and the right side is marked "BALLARD'S PATENT/NOV. 5. 1861." The majority of this production was to fill Civil War military orders. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Good. The barrel has a smooth brown patina and the remaining metal surfaces have a smooth mottled gray patina. The wood has had a coat of protective varnish applied overall at some time and remains very good with some scattered minor dents and dings. The markings are clear. Mechanically excellent.