Dixie 1861 Springfield

[14NYSM]

Way back at the 125th Gettysburg event Dixie Gun Works had a tent at sutler's row. They were promoting the introduction of a new reproduction Model 1861 Springfield rifle-musket. They had flyers, one of which I grabbed. It announced a special introductory offer which they thankfully extended. Just a few short weeks later a package arrived. I like it. It handles well and has a strong hammer spring. I have since held Italian replicas and they seemed heavier.
It was the first mass-produced replica M1861 and most of us reenactors who wanted a three-bander could only choose Pattern 1853 Enfield replicas. Thankfully, my main impression, the 14th Brooklyn used both in the war.
Made by Miroku in Japan, my only complaint is that the ramrod was not hardened, so it was bent when arms were stacked. The ramrod appears to have been made from three pieces - the end with the cup, the swell and the straight part. Ordering a replacement rod from Dixie, I got a M1864 rod without the swell.
The price? Well, I paid $395 plus $10 shipping and handling.

 

[14NYSM]

My Dixie Gun Works M1861 Springfield. Original M1855 bayonet (not a replica), blanks I made and bullets I dug out of the sand backstop at a rifle range.

 

[captaindrew]

Those are nice guns, you could probably double your money on it today the way things are right now.

 

[johan_steele]

I really like my Miroku but sadly I sold it to finance buying an original. The. Miroku M1861 is the only true reproduction of the M1861 IMHO. Original parts dropped in and it's weight and balance was much closer to the originals.

It's, perhaps, the only firearm I've parted with that I regret.

 

[muffinman67]

I remember seeing them in Dixie's catalog in the late 90's. I couldn't wait to get one, after years of using a PH Enfield, it was more correct for the unit I was in at the time. It was way nicer than what's offered today (except for the bendable ramrod). Actually, nothing much is offered today. I just watched a NOS Armi Sport "61 go for $1755 on Gunbroker. Unbelievable! The Miruko had a great write up in Craig Berry's Handbook, years ago. I also sold mine, much to my regret.

 

[muffinman67]

I meant the late eighties in the above post. they were new at the time.

 

[bobinwmass]

I know nothing about repro Springfields but see that the Old Militaria website is offering an Armi 1861, like new with box, for $825. Don't know if that is a good price or not.

 

[captaindrew]

I know nothing about repro Springfields but see that the Old Militaria website is offering an Armi 1861, like new with box, for $825. Don't know if that is a good price or not.

That's very good these days