For collectors and range shooters seeking an authentic midway-19th-century percussion piece, the British pattern smoothbore muskets offer distinct character and practical handling. These muskets bridge historical interest and functional use for controlled range environments and museum-quality displays.

BRITAIN/ENGLAND BRITISH PATTERN 1858 SMOOTH BORE MUSKET is an approx. 62 caliber smooth bore percussion musket that closely follows the British pattern 1858 design produced for native troops. The overall length is approx. 54.25″ with a 39.125″ round smooth bore barrel. The bore is described as fair with light roughness; the barrel exterior is bright with mixed brown stains and light pitting near the nipple. Birmingham proof marks and 25 bore stamps are present, and the rear barrel band includes a sighting notch.

The lock and hammer retain edge lines; the lock is clearly marked 1863 over TOWER at the center with a crown at the tail and shows a smooth brown patina. Brass furniture displays an even aged patina while the stock is good with issue dents and dings, an E over 17 on the left flat, and the maker’s name JOHN MARSON on the underside of the butt. Swivels are absent and the original ramrod is present. Price is listed at $1,450.99, placing this musket in an attainable range for collectors seeking period-correct examples in functional condition.

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Barrel, Markings and Furniture

The 62 caliber smooth bore is suited to loose round ball shooting and demonstration loads on the range; expect broader patterns than rifled arms and plan for reduced accuracy at distance. The Birmingham proof marks and 25 bore stamps authenticate manufacturing controls, and the rear band sighting notch is useful for alignment when firing from supported positions.

Action and Condition Notes

Functionality

The action functions correctly with one caveat: the hammer can be released from half cock. This is a serviceability point to inspect and may require a gunsmith if the buyer expects firing use. The ramrod is present, a critical component for a smoothbore percussion piece.

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As a Single Shot category piece with documented 1863 lock markings and maker attribution to JOHN MARSON, this musket is both a display-quality artifact and a functional shooter for controlled range use. Check current availability on the shop page to confirm condition details and purchasing steps.

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