Only 700 of these rifles were manufactured between 1861-62, and all but 100 are known to have been purchased for use by the U.S. Navy. Most of the rifles were used to arm Marine guards aboard ships, and some were used on gunboats on the Mississippi River. This example is identified by serial number as being part of a 100 rifle shipment to the Washington Navy Yard on June 28, 1862. Pg. 92 of the book "Civil War Small Arms of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps" by John D. McAulay states, "...The last 100 rifles were sent to the Washington Navy Yard on June 28. Five days later, on July 3, Samuel Miller, a civilian inspector at the yard, inspected 99 of the S&H rifles... Each box contained ten rifles, ten saber bayonets and scabbards, ten cleaning rods and two screwdrivers. The serial numbers of these rifles were:..." and proceeds to list the numbers of each rifle identified by box, with this rifle, serial number 295, contained in box 7. This exact rifle is photographed on the bottom of the page out of the author's collection. It has standard markings and features including a bottom mounted saber bayonet lug. The right side of the stock is branded with a large boxed "AREH".

Fine, retaining 50% original blue finish on the barrel with mottled brown patina, some mild pitting and wear at the muzzle, and some scattered scratches and handling marks. 20% original blue finish on the frame mainly in protected areas with the balance a mixed gray/brown patina with some patches of light pitting. 80% original blue finish on the bands, hammer, loading lever and tangs with some mild brown surface corrosion on the lever and rear barrel band. Brass buttplate with a fine dark aged patina. Wood is very good with some scattered chips, scratches and dents. Mechanically excellent. An genuine example of a scarce Navy rifle with documentation.