Discussion SL mark on Enfield P53 comb

[Patio]

This mark is on the comb by the buttplate of a P53 Enfield musket. Was told it is a Federal inspection stamp denoting Federal issue. Is this correct?

Thank you in advance.

 

[Jeff in Ohio]

That location is the classic location for Confederate viewer's (aka inspector's) marks

 

[bayonet]

That location is the classic location for Confederate viewer's (aka inspector's) marks

Maybe he should show us the rest of the rifle so the more knowledgeable folks here can tell him more!

 

[Patio]

Here are some more pictures. The pictures are from the seller.

 

[Patio]

A few more.

 

[rob63]

I don't know if the initials denote who inspected it at purchase, or are simply related to whoever supplied parts to the manufacturing process, but I will say that sure is a nice looking piece. I would love to have that one!

 

[Jeff in Ohio]

Nice, nice piece that looks untouched, except by some rat gnawing!

 

[Cornpone and Molasses]

If you get it please take a clearer picture of the markings in the last photo in post 5.
Thanks

 

[Patio]

Hope this is better.

Thanks for your interest.

 

[Cornpone and Molasses]

Hope this is better.
View attachment 577386View attachment 577387Thanks for your interest.

Not sure I've seen this one. Paging @Lanyard Puller

 

[Old Soldier]

The (symbol)/number stamp is probably a local inspection mark from the manufacturing company. 'swinburn' is the maker - Swinburn and Sons of Birmingham, England. The serial number MAY be their's too as it appears on other Swinburn rifles. It does not appear to have the Birminghan Small Arms roundel on the butt.

The Union acceptance stamp was usually a cartouch with script initials in the stock to the left of the breech. From a quick search:

A "S.L" stamp on the stock of a Pattern 1853 (P53) Enfield rifle-musket, located near the butt plate tang, is typically identified as a Confederate inspection mark or a mark from a private arms dealer/viewer involved in shipping weapons to the Confederacy during the American Civil War.

There are not the 'standard' early acceptance marks (JS/anchor, CH1, etc) which the date would suggest hence my emphasis above.