The Model 1861 Special Musket was originally developed by Samuel Colt in 1861 to fill a government contract; Colt combined the best features of the British Enfield and American Springfield to yield a suitable weapon. The musket developed was the 1861 Special Musket, in addition to Colt manufacturing these muskets a few other firms were contracted production. This musket is marked L. G. & Y Windsor VT. L.G. & Y stands for Lamson, Goodnow & Yale who contracted 50,000 of these muskets. This musket appears to be the earliest of the three variations with the 1862 date on the lock. The lock retains some of the original color case hardened finish. The bore is very good and the front sight has been replaced with a taller example. Trigger reach is 13-1/2" and this rifled musket weighs 8.7 pounds.

The.58 caliber bore is mostly bright with a few scattered dark spots. It should make a good shooter for military musket competition. The barrel was once finished armory bright but has developed a silvery gray patina without any heavy texture. The front sight has been replaced with a taller modern sight. The original three leaf rear sight with 100, 300, and 500 yard position remain. The nipple is a modern 5/16-24 threaded replacement.

The walnut stock has many scattered handling marks The heel of the buttplate is marked U.S. just forward of the retaining screw. The cartouche marks on the sideplate are no longer visible. From below the rounded toe and triggerguard of the musket can be seen. The triggerguard has a dark speckled aged patina. Three barrel bands hold the barrel to the stock and act as guides for the ramrod. The middle band has the appropriate sling swivel and the rear swivel is mounted to the front boss of the trigger bow. The ramrod has the flared end to seat a Minie ball, and the rear has a partial tapered thread.

Ignition for the musket is provided by this original percussion lock. The original color case hardened finish is muted but still visible. Additionally the lock carries a variety of original markings. The plate is dated 1862 on the tail. The eagle over U.S., and the markings below the bolster that read L. G. & Y/WINDSOR VT. The nipple is a modern replacement and can be removed. The end of the bolster is stamped with a federal eagle.

This is a original 1861 Special Musket made by Lamson, Goodnow & Yale to fill a U.S. government contract of 50,000 total arms. This early marked variation will make an excellent addition to any Civil War collection looking for a representative example or would make a good shooter. Order it for a ten day visual inspection. You will be delighted. Else if it does not fit you, return it in unfired condition for same-day refund. Postage is your only risk, when you order any one-of-a-kind gun from Track, whether new, used, or antique.