Original 1861 rifle made by Springfield

[Chem]

Hi all new member here! I have an original 1861 Springfield and I am wondering what it's value is! Some light pitting and the stock is "dry" in appearance. Action is very crisp and no flatting of the nipple. It would have to be proofed if it were to be shot again! Oh and it is still loaded!!!

 

[johan_steele]

A lot depends upon condition, rifling, viability of inspection marks and stamps as well as the date on the lock. As a wild mule guess I would guess retail at between $750 +/- due to the evident heavy pitting in the metal. $750 on the high end if the bore is gone, up to $1k with a strong bore, good rifling and clear stamps & inspection marks.

 

[Chem]

Thanks Johan! Most of the stamps on the exposed metal are gone, apart from the date and Springfield maker stamp! But when stripped all the stamps are as good as new (under the wood work). Looks like a rifle stored in an attic for years. I have no idea how sharp the rifling was on these rifles, so not sure if its worn out or not! Thanks for your help Johan!

 

[kevikens]

Chem if this piece is still loaded (I guess you "searched the piece" by inserting the ramrod ), be very, very careful about handling it . Black powder becomes quite unstable over time and it might not require very much to set if off, like forcing a ramrod down on top of a load. A competent gunsmith needs to handle this. There are procedures to render the load inert and then drawing the charge with a worm. DO NOT try this yourself. Call a gunsmith and make arrangements to safely transport the rifle and for him the handle the unloading of it.