*Enfield 1853 Pattern, 3-band Percussion Hammer Action Rifled Musket. Deactivated*
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. 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, and a 39-inch rifled barrel. Its overall length measures 140 centimeters.
*Condition*
The rifle is in excellent condition for its age and use. The wooden parts have a lovely patina. The wooden butt is slightly damaged where it joins the butt plate and there are nicks and dents commensurate with its age. Some metal parts are slightly more pitted but generally very good. Cocks and dry-fires. Please see pictures for more detail.
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