Joslyn Carbine / Sold
Joslyn Carbine - Inventory Number: RIF 094 / Sold
Often referred to as the First Model, was a cavalry weapon that used an innovative pivoting breechblock system invented and patented by Massachusetts gun designer Benjamin Franklin Joslyn in 1855. Under his June 1862 government contract, the Joslyn Fire Arms Company of Stonington, Connecticut, produced his first rimfire model carbine now designated as the Model 1862.
Designed for field use with Federal horse soldiers, the Joslyn carbine fired a standard Spencer rimfire cartridge of .52 caliber. Joslyn’s unique loading arrangement consisted of lifting up the breechblock tab or hook, pivoting the breechblock to the left and then inserting the round. The hook-type friction latch for the breechblock and its exposed firing pin extension were characteristics of the Model 1862 Joslyn. This weapon is in very good condition and exhibits a pleasing appearance with a fine walnut stock and all brass mounted furniture. Carbine bears serial #3,332 on top of the breechblock, under the breechblock hinge, and on the barrel tang. The barrel wears a uniform dark gray color, while all other gunmetal wears a brighter mottled patina. The flat, casehardened lockplate Is recessed almost flush with the stock and is stamped forward of the hammer with “JOSLYN FIRE ARMS Co / STONINGTON/ CONN”. Barrel muzzle features an iron blade front sight while the breech area sports a two-leaf folding rear sight graduated to 500 yards. Sub-inspector mark “W.P” visible on the left side of the barrel forward of the breech.
The M1862 Joslyn carbine has a 22” long barrel fitted to a one-piece walnut stock / forend secured by a single brass barrel band. Weapon has an overall length of 38¾”. Casehardened lockplate and mountings enjoy a dark patina. Lockplate is stamped “JOSLYN FIRE ARMS Co / STONINGTON / CONN.” in front of the hammer. Top surface of the hinged breechblock exhibits patent stampings “B.F. JOSLYN’S PATENT / OCTOBER 8TH 1861 / JUNE 1862 / 3,332”. Two-leaf rear sight has a “V” notch and sits at the rear of the barrel while at the front is a small pinched sight. The bore is good but rifling shows areas of light pitting throughout. Mechanics strong. Stock is in good condition and displays normal dings and scratches from use and storage. The carbine’s steel sling bar and sling ring are tightly attached to the left side of stock. The government cartouche visible on the left side of stock above the ring bar. All screws are original and in good condition. Brass parts exhibit a cleaned, but attractive patina. Small inspector’s mark on the butt tang. No sling swivel. This Civil War Joslyn Model 1862 carbine is a wonderful representative weapon used by the Federal cavalry in the Civil War and would enhance any military display or weapons collection.
Inventory Number: RIF 094 / Sold