Harpers Ferry Armory manufactured approximately 15,700 Type II Model 1803 rifles between 1814-1820. The U.S. Model 1803 was the first true military rifle issued by the U.S. government. Prior rifles were basically civilian American long rifles purchased from gunmakers, but this model was designed and manufactured at the Harper's Ferry Arsenal. It is also distinct from the rifles that followed thanks to its half-stock configuration and under-rib on the barrel. Altogether they are unique and historically significant U.S. martial arms. Features include seven-groove rifling, low profile brass blade front and notch rear sights, a "wedding band" at the transition point, sunken "US" and "eagle head/P" proofs marked on the upper left barrel flat at the breech, an "eagle" containing a "US" marked shield at the center of the lock, "HARPERS/FERRY/1815" (partially faded) on the tail of the lock, brass furniture, and an iron ramrod with flared tip. Upside down "V/JS" (James Stubblefield) script inspection initials ahead of a "V" marked on the left stock flat, and "WS" inspection initials marked behind the lower tang.

Good with dark brown patina, some scattered tarnishing, scattered moderate pitting, and some faded markings in the metal. Stock is also good as re-oiled with some light scratches, a crack behind the ramrod ferrule, chips around the right of the barrel wedge, various cracks around the sideplate, a crack behind the lock, some cracks on the right of the buttstock, and a clear cartouche. Mechanically fine.