The Model 1842s were the last smoothbore muskets manufactured by the U.S. national armories, was the first model manufactured with fully interchangeable parts, and were specifically designed with thicker barrels so that they could be rifled later. Large quantities were rifled in the antebellum era, and both the remaining smoothbore muskets and the rifled muskets were widely used during the Civil War by both sides. Thus, high condition Model 1842 with original smoothbore barrels are very scarce today. This Springfield musket is certainly one of the finest extant and has the standard markings and features and is dated "1853" on both the lock and barrel tang and has a crisp "JAS" cartouche on the left flat.

Exceptionally fine, as issued overall with protective oil coating the metal which exhibits minimal storage wear overall, a few light dings and scratches on the excellent wood as is to be expected on an over 160 year musket, a couple small chips near the toe, and crisp edges and markings on the wood and metal. Mechanically excellent. Definitely one of the best smoothbore Model 1842s you're ever going to find.