Only 1,011 of these W.G. Ward and Bethel Burton designed rifles were manufactured by Springfield Armory in 1871 and then sent West for field trials and 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 true metallic cartridge bolt action rifle issued by the U.S. Army and the first bolt action manufactured at a U.S. armory. Unlike earlier "bolt action" designs such as the Palmer carbines, the bolt contains the firing pin, and there is no external hammer. 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 faint cartouches on the left, a slotted metal ramrod, sling swivels, and a "US" marked buttplate.

Very good plus overall with gray and brown patina on the metal, a repaired crack starting at the back of the action, dark re-oiled finish, moderate scratches and dings, and crisp markings other than the cartouches. Mechanically fine.