Less than 1,000 rifles are believed to have been manufactured by Mendenhall, Jones & Gardner for the State of North Carolina. Early examples with an iron buttplate such as this one are particularly rare. The lower tang is brass, and the trigger guard is iron with a removed sling swivel. The corresponding swivel was also removed from forward brass barrel band. "M. J. &. G./N. C" marked center of the lock, "C.S./1862" marked tail of the lock. Features serial number "259" on the inside of the lock and underside of the barrel tang. "P/N. C" faintly marked on top of the barrel at the breech. "W.FERGUSON" repeatedly stamped on the stock exterior and interior as well as on the sideplate (unknown individual).