The Model 1861 rifle-musket was the primary weapon used by the Union infantry during the Civil War with various firms outside of Springfield Armory manufacturing them under contract for the war effort using parts interchangeability on a large scale. This example is marked "U.S./NEW YORK/1862" on the lock as manufactured by Sarson & Roberts. Considered to be one of the scarcest of all the contracts, Sarson & Roberts of New York originally contracted with the U.S. Government in August 1861 for 25,000 rifle-muskets. The company faced unforeseen problems and struggled to complete their contract in full, having to subcontract most of the parts to Alfred Jenks & Son and even purchasing parts from Springfield. Sarson & Roberts would only deliver a reported 5,643 weapons in total over the course of a year, with deliveries of completed arms beginning in November 1862, over a year after the initial contract. Front bayonet stud sight and flip up 500 yard ladder rear sight with an 1862 dated barrel. The left stock flat is marked with a boxed script cartouche "ZB" (Zadock Butt) with a chip on the middle of the Z. Includes a period U.S. socket bayonet featuring a modern inscription on the blade (bordered gothic script "JD McAULAY 7th Regt VA Vols") and leather scabbard.

Very good. There is some very light patches of surface pitting on areas of the barrel and on the lock. The rear sight retains nearly all of its refinished blue finish. The stock is very fine as arsenal refinished with some scattered light scratches, dents, lightly rounded edges, chipping at the toe, and some handling marks. Included bayonet is very good with some light surface rust and pitting, and crisp inscription. The leather scabbard is also very good showing an aged patina with some edge wear and cracks. Mechanically excellent. Model 1861 U.S. contract rifle-muskets are an important piece for any U.S. martial or Civil War collection, with Sarson & Roberts being one of the scarcest.