Palmer Bolt Action Saddle Ring Cavalry Carbine / Sold
Manufactured circa 1865 in Windsor, Vermont by E.G. Lamson & co. This carbine is one of 1,001 such carbines produced. This was the first bolt action metallic cartridge firearm accepted by the U.S. Ordnance Department to be issued to the service. The Lamson Company delivered its contract for the Palmer carbine just as the war ended in June 1865 and the arm was never issued. The firearm had a bolt action operation that used a short-handled bolt at the rear of the breech that when pulled back and opened, exposed the chamber for loading the rimfire round. This is a very light and handy carbine.
The back of the lock is dated “1865”. The front pf the lock is dated “U.S.”/E.G. LAMSON & CO. / WINDSOR, VT”. The receiver is marked “WM. PALMER / PATENT / DEC. 22, 1863”. The left side of the stock is marked with the initials “M.M.” for M. Moulton, who inspected Palmer Carbines.
The overall condition is very good. The metal surfaces are dark with age. The markings are clear and legible. The bore is in good condition with sharp rifling. The stock shows use and remains solid. Rear sight is absent. The action on this carbine is excellent. Here is a very scarce Civil War Contract Carbine and 1st US Metallic Cartridge Bolt Action for your collection!
Inventory Number: RIF 092 / Sold