These "Fifth Model" Burnside carbines represent the completion of the evolution of General Ambrose Burnside's ingenious carbine design. The outbreak of the Civil War led to the purchase of over 50,000 Burnside carbines. They were the third most purchased breech loading carbine during the war, after only the Sharps and the Spencer. This example has the matching serial number on the frame and breech block, a boxed script "RKW" inspection cartouche stamped on the left stock wrist, and "N.S.P." inspection initials ahead of the buttplate tang.

Excellent, retains 85% plus original blue finish on the barrel with areas thinning to a smooth brown patina on the balance and a few small patches of moderate surface corrosion and some light freckling, 90% plus bright original nitre blue finish on the lever and tangs with some light freckling and flaking on the lower tang and lever, and 97% vibrant original case colors on the frame, hammer, lock, and lever latch. Wood is also excellent with attractive original raised grain and rich oil finish, defined edges, a few scattered dents and scratches (most noticeable on top left), and an exceptionally crisp cartouche. Mechanically excellent.