A reported 1,002 Ball carbines were manufactured on contract starting in 1864 and delivered after the end of the Civil War. This is the finest example Rock Island Auction has catalogued. The Ball carbine uses a seven-shot tubular magazine similar to the Henry and later Winchesters. Interestingly, Winchester and Smith & Wesson both purchased E.G. Lamson & Co.'s machinery after the war. Fixed blade front and folding ladder rear sight, cleaning rod on the right side of the forearm, "E.G. LAMSON & CO./WINDSOR. VT./U.S./BALLS PATENT./ JUNE.23.1863./MAR. 15.1846." marked on the left of the receiver, and saddle ring and bar on the left side of the receiver. Smooth two-band forearm and straight grip stock with no visible cartouche, and a steel crescent buttplate. Includes a rare original Ball firearms manual and Ball carbine combination screwdriver tool and wood tampion. Provenance: The Donald Bates Collection

Excellent plus, as issued. Retains 98% original blue finish on the barrel. Retains 98% plus vivid original case colors with some light thinning on the lever. Wood is also excellent with attractive original raised grain and defined edges, some light handling marks, and an exceptionally crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional example of a scarce Ball repeating carbine that would be nearly impossible to improve upon and would make an excellent addition to any advanced Civil War collection!