Starr Arms Co. was the third largest supplier of revolvers and fifth largest supplier of carbines during the Civil War, manufacturing a reported 20,601 of these carbines on contract for the U.S. government from 1862-65. One of the regiments confirmed to have been issued Starr Carbines was the Union's 1st Arkansas Cavalry who, for much of the war, were stationed in northwest Arkansas and involved in a bitter, neighbor against neighbor, partisan struggle against Confederate guerrilla fighters. This example has the standard Starr markings and features. Matching serial number underneath the barrel and right side of the breech block wedge. Inspector marked "H.G.S." at the left of the breech. Large letters "IC" marked on top of the barrel and right side of the buttstock, possibly company marks.

Fine, retaining 40% original blue finish on the barrel with areas of thinning and some light wear. 50% vivid original case colors with some gray and brown patina, and some scattered patches of mild pitting. Brass fittings retain an attractive aged patina. Wood is fine as refinished with some light handling marks, and very faint remnants of cartouches on the left wrist. Mechanically excellent. An overall attractive Civil War Starr carbine that saw light service use.