I found a musket that is a little beat up but can't find to much information on it. The gun is a 1861 springfield but I am more wondering on how you can tell if it is a reproduction or an original made between the production years of 1861-1864?
The gun has a springfield on the side with 1861 a little farther back. I couldn't find anything else on the gun.
Thanks for any help
Moderator
If you can do it, some good photos might help.
JDH
Yep, pictures are definitely necessary. If the barrel is stamped "Black Powder Only" then it is definitely a reproduction.
Usually, but not always, the stocks of original guns exhibit a bit of shrinkage and the wood grain pattern will be pronounced.
Now, to further complicate the issue, Re-enactors "defarb" replicas so all of their markings are identical to the markings found on original rifles!
Banned
To the best of my knowledge and the ones I have come across, the imported replicas use metric threads for the screws.
I you have or can get a thread pitch gauge you can measure to see if they are metric or not.
Another way is to take let's say a screw that holds the lock plate out and go to Home Depot or alike. They usually have a display of metric and standard nuts on a board you can try them in to find out the size and pitch.
Bill Cheek
Cockade Rifles
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