Historic single-shot firearms occupy a special place for collectors and tactical historians alike—pieces that tell stories of trade routes, frontier life, and evolving lockwork technology. Careful inspection and accurate provenance separate a display-grade reproduction from a museum-worthy relic.

MUSKETEER RIFLES NORTHWEST TRADE GUN WITH 1855 LOCK PLATE .60 CAL

This MUSKETEER RIFLES NORTHWEST TRADE GUN WITH 1855 LOCK PLATE .60 CAL is an NSN-era piece circa 1860s, offered in the Single Shot category for collectors who prioritize authenticity and patina. Priced at $2,750.99, the rifle features a .60 caliber, .42″ octagonal-to-round smoothbore barrel and an unfinished model 1855 lock plate dated 1858 (AL9734). Shop this product to review the listing and purchase options; the shop page links through to the retailer for checkout.

Physical Condition and Collectible Value

Surface oxidation on the barrel and iron parts is present, with notable pitting at the bolster and a heavily oxidized bore—typical for an unrestored trade gun of this period. The stock shows expected nicks, dings, and handling wear; minor cracks are visible in the serpent side plate. These features are important for collectors seeking original condition examples rather than refurbished pieces.

Lock Plate and Action

The unfinished model 1855 lock plate dated 1858 is a highlight for historians tracking small variations in mid-19th-century lockwork. Mechanically, the action holds at both half and full cock, making it a functional example for demonstration firing under proper historic firearms protocols and specialist supervision.

Caliber, Barrel, and Practical Notes

The .60 caliber smoothbore was common in trade guns: large-diameter round lead ball performance, reliable under rough field conditions, and simpler loading for frontiersmen and traders. The .42″ octagonal-to-round barrel profile influences balance and handling—valuable details when assessing mounting possibilities for display racks or living-history demonstrations. For technical collectors, the bore condition will factor into decisions about restoration versus conservation.

For full specifications and current inventory details, View product details and pricing on the shop page; the listing notes provenance and condition reports to help informed acquisition.

Collectors focused on authenticity will appreciate the documented age markers—NSN-era dating, the 1858 lock plate, and the overall unrestored condition. If you want to move forward with acquisition or review purchase logistics through the retailer, Check current availability for this MUSKETEER RIFLES NORTHWEST TRADE GUN WITH 1855 LOCK PLATE .60 CAL and see the full listing with images and purchase links.

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