1864 Burnside Single Shot Carbine 5th Model
Burnside single shot percussion carbine, Model 1864, more commonly known as the “5th model”. It is a .54 caliber carbine manufactured by the Burnside Rifle Co., in Providence, Rhode Island. While General Ambrose Burnside was an official in the company before the Civil War, he was not involved in the wartime development of this weapon. The Burnside carbine is distinguished by its unique cone-shaped metal cartridge, an unusual feature for a percussion system.
Designations and Production
Although period literature mentions a Model 1863, no existing carbines bear this date. Collectors often refer to this carbine as the “5th model”, but this term is not contemporary to its production. Approximately 43,000 carbines of this model were manufactured, with serial numbers seemingly reset and running up to around 43,000. The 5th model offered modest improvements over its predecessors, most notably the addition of a guide screw on the right side of the receiver, enhancing the smoothness of the loading process.
Markings and Barrel Stamps
Early production carbines, up to about 19,000, have “Model 1864” stamped on the top of the breech. Later production reverted to using the 1856 patent date. The barrel is stamped “Cast Steel”, followed by a date, which is often faint or missing due to the difficulty of centering the long, narrow stamp on the round barrel. Both 1862 and 1864 dates appear to have been used, but are frequently illegible.
Key Features
- Manufacturer: Burnside Rifle Co., Providence, Rhode Island
- Model: 1864 (aka 5th Model)
- Caliber: .54
- Action: Single shot, percussion
- Cartridge: Unique cone-shaped metal cartridge
- Guide screw on right side of receiver for smoother loading
- Iron Buttplate
- Single iron barrel band
- Saddle riding bar and ring on left side
- Strap hook on bottom of butt
- Double hinged iron loading lever/trigger guard
- Hinged sight
- Chamber tapered for Burnside cartridge
- Approximately 43,000 produced
- Used by Union cavalry during the American Civil War
Standard Features
This Burnside carbine boasts several standard features, including an iron buttplate, a single iron barrel band, a saddle riding bar and ring on the left side, and a strap hook on the bottom of the butt. The double-hinged iron loading lever also functions as a trigger guard. Additionally, the carbine has a hinged sight and a chamber tapered to accommodate the unique Burnside metal cartridge, which has a priming hole in the bottom for percussion.
A Collector’s Gem
The 1864 Burnside Single Shot Carbine is a fascinating artifact of American firearm history. Its unique cartridge design and role in the Civil War make it a sought-after piece for collectors and enthusiasts. Despite its modest improvements over earlier models, the 5th model represents a significant step in the evolution of the Burnside carbine and serves as a testament to the ingenuity of American gunsmiths during a pivotal period in the nation’s history.
Preserving History
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of antique firearms, the 1864 Burnside Single Shot Carbine is a treasure worth preserving and admiring for generations to come.
