Eli Whitney contract M-1841 Rifle fs

[Blair]

After the Government Contracts for the Model 1841 "Mississippi" Rifles ended in 1855, Whitney continues to make this model under contracts to various States.
These Rifles will not have the standard U S makings. It is believed that Whitney bought up surplus parts from other contractors of the M-1841's to assemble these firearms. A great amount of variation maybe found in these post production arms.

This Post Production copy of a Whitney M-1841 Rifle features these unique variations/alterations;
Cheery wood stock "without" patch box, short double strap front barrel band as was used on rifles altered and fitted for a saber/sword bayonet, all furniture is brass of the 1841 type. Rear sight is the short base three leaf 1858 type. With a threaded screw hole for affixing one of the long base rear sight base if you wish. (Sight not included.)
The muzzle end of the barrel has been turned down to accommodate the M-1855 socket bayonet as was done on the one of the "Drake" alteration, and fitted with an Rifle Musket front sight bayonet lug. The barrel on this Rifle has been turned down 5 and 1/4 in. from the muzzle to just beyond where the saber/sword bayonet lug mounting flat would have been machined. Bore is .58 cal. with all iron trumpet shaped ramrod.
There is only one very small Italian proof mark visible on the left barrel flat. No other modern marks are visible. Comes with a well used and older Italian made socket bayonet fitted to the firearm (sorry, no scabbard).
Lock is of the standard repro that has been faced off and the mainspring retaining screw added.
The original Rifle I copied this from was in a private collection.
This is a well used, but cared for firearm that I custom built specifically for reenacting almost 30 years ago. $850.00 plus shipping and full insurance coverage.
Photos are available. Please use my e-mail address in my signature line to request photos.

[Blair]

A good example of the Whitney Post Production "Mississippi Rifles" maybe be found on Pages 247 to 249 of "Confederate Longarm and Pistols".
The rifle depicted is believed to be one of 60 rifles sent to the State of Mississippi for inspection on an order place for 1000 rifles in 1860. The order was canceled after inspection, stating the arms were constructed of old parts. As I stated earlier, there is and can be quite a bit of variation in these Post Production arms. (I wonder if the cancellation read, not "old parts", but, "odd parts"?)
The arm pictured has NO patch box, a long range Whitney rear sight, short front barrel band, bayonet lug with a 1 " guide, and brass blade front sight and is in .54 cal.
Lock is marked "E. Whitney" forward of the hammer, and "N. Haven" to the rear. No date and no Martial markings on this arm.

[Blair]

Bump.
Back to the top.
I have a long range rear sight (500 yd base) I can put on this rifle for those who are interested. Add $100.00 to the above mentioned price.
Thank you,

[Blair]

Yet another bump,
Thank you,

[Blair]

Another bump....
Thank you