This example is one of 2,000 Second Model Burnside carbines manufactured between circa 1860-62. The main distinguishing characteristic of the second model from the more common latter examples is the absence of a forearm. It has a blade front sight, notch and folding leaf rear sight, lever catch marked "G. P. FOSTER PAT./APRIL 10TH 1860", lock plate marked "BURNSIDE RIFLE CO./PROVIDENCE=R.I.", a saddle ring and bar on the left side of the action, and a sling swivel on the bottom of the stock. Serial number "1362" on top of the frame and matching number below the barrel. Breech block is a replacement numbered "890" on top. Some of these carbines were used by the 1st Rhode Island Infantry at the Battle of Bull Run in July 1861, and the remainder were issued to many Federal cavalry regiments including the 1st U.S. Cavalry. Nearly all of the Second Model Burnside carbines saw hard Civil War service with a low survival rate.

Fair. This carbine clearly was issued and used in the Civil War. The barrel, receiver, hammer, lever and buttplate have a mottled brown patina with faint traces of the original blue, and scattered light pitting. The stock is good as refinished, showing moderate to heavy handling wear with scattered dents, scratches, and chips around the lock and at the toe. Mechanically fair with a faulty trigger spring and sear that release the hammer early, and a crack on the lever below the breech block that does not affect function. This is a completely original example of a scarce Second Model Burnside Carbine.