Model 1847 U.S. Cavalry Musketoon – Springfield Armory

Model 1847 U.S. Cavalry Musketoon – Springfield Armory - Inventory Number: RIF 257

A scarce and historically important example of the Model 1847 Cavalry Musketoon, manufactured at Springfield Armory as part of the U.S. Ordnance Department’s effort to arm mounted troops with a compact, versatile firearm. Designed specifically for cavalry service, the M1847 was the first standardized U.S. musketoon model issued in quantity to mounted forces.

Chambered in .69 caliber and built as a smoothbore percussion firearm, this single-shot musketoon features a 26-inch barrel, brass barrel bands, and iron furniture. It is equipped with a bar-type saddle ring and side plate, allowing for easy carbine sling attachment. The lockplate is typically marked:

“SPRINGFIELD” with an eagle motif and dated 1847, while the barrel tang carries a matching date.

The walnut stock is solid and shows the classic short cavalry profile, often bearing clear U.S. inspector cartouches on the left side flat. The weapon was designed for rugged service, and although early complaints arose regarding recoil and weight, it saw widespread issue with dragoon and mounted rifle units through the Mexican-American War and into the early Civil War period.

As a key transitional arm bridging the flintlock era and the expanding use of percussion ignition systems, the Model 1847 Musketoon holds an important place in U.S. military firearms history. Surviving examples remain scarce, especially in this condition.

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Inventory Number: RIF 257