Collectors and historians prize original military percussion rifles for their craftsmanship and tangible links to 19th-century arms development. A well-preserved short rifle from the Pattern 1856 family offers both display appeal and a working example of British percussion engineering.

BRITAIN/ENGLAND BRITISH PATTERN 1856 SHORT RIFLE

This specific Pattern 1856 577 caliber percussion short rifle was made in 1860 and is offered at $1550.99. The 33″ round barrel shows a fair bore with visible rifling and carries a single proof plus the 25 bore stamp identifying it as 577 caliber. The lock is crisply marked 1860 over TOWER at the center and crown over V.R at the tail, confirming manufacture under British Tower armory inspection. Shop this product to view this piece on our shop page.

Why this Pattern 1856 stands out

The 577 caliber is a defining feature: as a large-bore percussion cartridge equivalent, it represents the era’s emphasis on stopping power and ballistic performance for military musketry. For collectors it provides authenticity for period display and potential use in controlled percussion shooting events when inspected by a qualified gunsmith.

Condition notes and feature highlights

Metal surfaces exhibit a smooth brown patina consistent with age; brass furniture shows an even age patina with light roughness in places. The stock is described as very good with light issue dents and dings. Functionally, the action operates correctly, the ramrod and front swivel are present, while the rear swivel and stud are absent—important details for restorers and display mounting. These specifics help set expectations for acquisition and needed conservation work.

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For anyone building a British percussion rifle collection, this BRITAIN/ENGLAND BRITISH PATTERN 1856 SHORT RIFLE (AL7154) combines documented provenance, visible Tower marks, and serviceable mechanics. Check current availability on the product page to secure this historical piece.

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