British 1853 Pattern Tower Enfield 3 Band Percussion Rifle, dated 1858. Unit marked, with Sling

*British 1853 Pattern Tower Enfield 3 Band Percussion Rifle, dated 1858. Unit marked. With Sling*

The Enfield Pattern 1853 3-band Percussion Hammer Action rifle-musket, also known as the Pattern 1853 Enfield, P53 Enfield, or simply the Enfield rifle-musket, was a .577 caliber Minié-type muzzle-loading rifled musket that served the British Empire from 1853 to 1867. The term “rifle-musket” denoted muskets whose smooth-bore barrels had been replaced with rifled ones. Despite this modification, the barrel length remained the same to facilitate firing in formation, as it was essential for the muzzles of the second row of soldiers to extend beyond the front row’s faces. The Minié designation refers to the ammunition used by these rifles, specifically the Minié ball—a hollow-based bullet designed to enhance range and accuracy when paired with a rifled barrel.

Crown over VR stamped and dated 1858 Tower on the lock. Numbered 53 behind the sight. Roundel on stock "Star Tower London star 1860" around a "Crown with a W O interspersed with a war arrow" suggesting it was used in the 2nd Opium War. Regimental unit markings on the stock "V Hs1 63". Inspection mark "Crown 12" is stamped in the trigger. The lock is a percussion sidelock. The hammer may be set at half cock (safe) and full cock (fire).

The Enfield rifle-musket features brass trigger guards, butt plates, and mounts, along with a steel ramrod, adjustable pop-up ladder sights, sling suspension loops, leather sling, and a 39-inch or 99.1cm rifled barrel. Its overall length measures 140 centimeters. The two-stage lock mechanism is in working order.

*Condition*
Cocks and dry-fires. There are a few knocks and marks to the barrel but overall, this musket is in excellent condition and you will struggle to find a better example. Please see pictures for more detail as they form part of our condition report.

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