Original U.S. Civil War Era Springfield Model 1855 Percussion Pistol-Carbine with Rare Detachable Shoulder Stock – Dated 1856
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Original Item: Only One Available. This is an exceptional and extremely rare example of the U.S. Springfield Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine, complete with its original detachable shoulder stock — a feature almost always missing today. Produced at the Springfield Armory between 1855 and 1857, only about 4,021 examples of this remarkable pistol were manufactured. The Model 1855 was the last single-shot pistol ever produced for the U.S. military, representing a fascinating transitional step between the traditional horse pistols of the early 19th century and the more modern repeating sidearms of the Civil War era.
Chambered in .58 caliber, this innovative design utilized the same Maynard Tape Primer System as the M1855 rifle-musket. The mechanism automatically advanced a priming tape each time the hammer was cocked, eliminating the need for manual percussion caps — though standard musket caps could still be used if necessary. The pistol was designed to serve a dual purpose: a compact sidearm for cavalrymen and, with its detachable shoulder stock, a short carbine for use on foot.
This example measures 18 inches overall, featuring a swivel-mounted ramrod for easy reloading on horseback. The brass-mounted walnut stock remains solid, showing only very minor service wear. The removable shoulder stock, U.S.-marked on the buttplate tang, fits securely and displays a rich aged patina — a remarkable survival in its own right, as these were often lost or damaged in service. It has a serial number 1955. Indeed, this is a rare example we have encountered with the original shoulder stock still attached.
The lockplate is clearly marked: U.S. / SPRINGFIELD with the spread eagle motif stamped into the Maynard primer cover, and dated 1856 on the tail. The barrel tang bears the date 1855, indicating the year of manufacture. Standard V / P / Eagle Head proof marks are crisp and legible on the barrel. The metal components remain bright, showing only light age staining and scattered oxidation. The bore is bright and retains its original three-groove rifling.
Mechanically, the lock functions correctly and tightly. The Maynard primer mechanism remains intact and is functional. .
As with most surviving examples, there is a hairline cracks at the wrist, a common occurrence due to the stress exerted when the stock was attached. This crack does not compromise integrity and there is no play in the stock at all. The wood overall remains sound with excellent color and fit, and the shoulder stock is in excellent condition.
The Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine was intended to combine the best features of a pistol and carbine, but its awkward balance, heavy recoil, and the fragility of the Maynard primer system led to its rapid obsolescence. Nonetheless, it remains one of the most visually striking and historically significant U.S. martial arms of the mid-19th century.
This is a truly outstanding, honest example of a rare Springfield Model 1855 Pistol-Carbine, complete with its original U.S.-marked shoulder stock — an extraordinary find for the advanced collector of early U.S. military firearms.
A remarkable display piece representing the final evolution of the U.S. single-shot martial pistol — ready to add to even the most advanced Civil War collection.
Specifications:
Year of Manufacture: 1855
Caliber: .58 inch Minié
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder with Tape Primer
Barrel Length: 12 inches
Overall Length: 18 inches
Action: Percussion Lock
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded
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