This First Model Hotchkiss carbine was built using a mix of Winchester and Springfield components and would have been used in early Army field trials. Only 501 are believed to have been manufactured. Many were converted into Second Models in 1881 or otherwise altered and re-issued for additional trials. Table #5 Springfield Research Service list on page 342 of the book "U.S. Military Bolt Action Rifles" by Bruce Canfield lists this example by serial number as having been shipped from Springfield Armory on June 7th, 1879, although it is listed as a rifle rather than a carbine (they were made in the same serial number sequence). It has a pinned blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, "US" and "V/P/eagle head" proof and inspection marks at the breech, the three-line Winchester address and Hotchkiss patent marking on the left side of the action followed by the serial number, Henry Nettleton "HN." inspector marks on the bolt, the distinctive first model magazine cut-off on the right, a correct First Model oval "ESA/1878" (partial) inspection cartouche marked next to the saddle ring on the left, and a script "P" proof behind the trigger guard. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Information on these Hotchkiss carbines can be found in Man at Arms- July/Aug 1986- "The Wartime Winchesters" and the book "U.S. Military Bolt Action Rifles" pages 42-44, both by Bruce Canfield. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very good plus, retaining 30% original blue finish on the receiver with some loss on the rear sight and breech end of the refinished barrel, and some patches of mild pitting on the bolt and receiver. Stock is fine with some light scratches, chips behind the receiver, attractive grain, and a partial but otherwise crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent.