Item Description
Original Item: One Only. The Ballard is a single-shot, breech loading firearm used late during the Civil War. The .44 caliber, percussion rifle was invented and patented by Charles H. Ballard of Worcester, Mass in November 1861. These were made by 5 different contractors, however there is not one marked on this example. It also is in a long rifle configuration, which we have not had before. It measures 45 1/4 inches long overall, with a 30 inch round barrel and full length military style stock. This features three barrel bands securing the stock to the barrel, and front and rear sling swivels.
Usually we see these with markings on the barrel, but later examples moved them to the receiver. The right side of the action is marked:
BALLARD'S PATENT
NOV. 5.1861
The left side markings does not display a maker, just the agent that Ballard used for retailing the guns.
MERWIN & BRAY. AGT'S
NEW YORK.
There is also a PATENTED JAN 5 1864 marking on the hammer. Serial number 17835 is stamped on the barrel behind of the rear sight and also on the receiver top, and receiver is also marked No. 46 at the end. There is a flip-up rear sight marked for 100, 250, and 500 yards at breech and blade sight at muzzle. While an estimated 24,000 Ballard carbines were produced by five different firms, only about 5,000 of the rifle are thought to have been made, making this quite a rare gun!
One of the most interesting features of this version of the Ballard system is the “split” breechblock with a dual percussion/rimfire ignition system. This “dual” system allowed for use of rimfire ammunition or “capping breech loader” ammunition. The rimfire firing pin on this example is intact, but the cap nipple cone is missing, though the threading in the block can still be seen.
The metal surfaces are in good condition, though the finish is worn, with light peppering over most of the barrel, and a mottled patina on the receiver. The receiver markings are mostly legible, so this example does not appear to have been refinished. The walnut stocks are in very good condition, showing wear from use and age, but no cracks or other damage that we can see. The bore is in very good condition, with clear lands and grooves and a partly bright finish. The lands are shiny, but the grooves are dark with fouling and oxidation, and there is definitely some wear from use. The falling block action cycles correctly, with the manual ejector still fully functional.
The early falling block action used was ahead of its time, but the competition with Sharps, Spencer and others was overwhelming. The result is that these Rifles are very scarce today but are essential to be included in any Civil War Collection. With a lovely worn patina, this rare Ballard Long Rifle is ready to display!
Specifications-
Years of Manufacture: circa 1865
Caliber: .44
Ammunition Type: Rimfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 30 inches
Overall Length: 45 1/4 inches
Action: Falling Breech with Manual Hammer
Feed System: Single Shot
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This product is available for international shipping.
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