US M1808 contract percussion conversion musket by Barstow - $1050.00
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US M1808 contract percussion conversion musket by Joshua & Charles Barstow of Exeter, New Hampshire. Only a contract of 2500 was in place with 2375 believed to have been delivered, making them one of the most reliable of the contractors, who often struggled to deliver a quality product while remaining financially solvent. 44-3/4" barrel. Converted to percussion with the drum and nipple system. Marked on lock (partially poorly struck) with eagle over US in oval in front of hammer, and "EXETER/J.&.C.B" at rear of lock. Marked on barrel with "US", "[eagle]/CT" oval contract proof, and "V" viewing proof. Metal parts are mostly an aged brown patina with lock and sideplate having been cleaned. Sling swivels are absent. Stock shows expected use and may have been lightly cleaned. There is a small crack by the rear lock screw and a crack above the rear of the lock, secured long ago with a couple hand-forged nails. Wood has marks and bruises from handling, a few of which are moderate, and some old worn chipping in the ramrod channel. Mechanically good, sold as a collector item only, not warranted safe to shoot.
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