Austrian Lorenz Rifle-Musket / SOLD

Austrian Lorenz Rifle-Musket - Inventory Number:  RIF 168 / SOLD

The Model 1854 Austrian “Lorenz” Rifle-Musket was second only to the Enfield in the numbers imported by both sides during the Civil War. They were widely issued from late 1861 until the end of the war, particularly to Union forces in the Western Theater and the Confederate Army of the Tennessee. Most were imported in the original .54 caliber, and some were bored and re-rifled to .58 caliber. There are two types of rear sights: a simple block sight and a folding leaf sight with two graduations to 900 yards. Some stocks have a cheek rest, and some do not. The rifles were generally liked by the Civil War soldier as handy and accurate firearms. 

This example has a .57 caliber bore which is dark and has no visible rifling (it appears to have been bored out for post-war use as a shotgun). The iron surfaces have aged to a deep, plum brown patina. The hammer holds on all positions, but the half cock position is very low on the nipple from wear to the tumbler. The nipple is original and in fair condition. This example was cut for the rear block sight, which is now missing. This version lacks the cheek piece on the stock, which remains in good condition with done chips and dents from service. The ramrod is no longer present. A good representative Lorenz that could have seen service with either Union or Confederate forces.

 Inventory Number:  RIF 168 / SOLD