Restored Confederate 1853 Enfield

[ssgtmike]

My first post to this forum:

In 1986 I was serving in the Navy in Norfolk VA. One weekend myself and friends traveled to Suffolk County VA to an estate auction as they had several firearms for sale. I purchased for $100 a Confederate 1853 three band Enfield less barrel and bands. Being 19 and naive, I thought at the time when I got home I'd merely buy a barrel and bands from Dixie Gun works and have a nice Confederate rifle. It proceeded to sit in my gun case for the next 24 years without a barrel.

In early 2010 I sent it to Douglas Bates at : http://www.handgunrepairshop.com Douglas did a great job on the restoration, though it wasn't cheap. Also, Rifle is not for sale at any price. This is an heirloom piece for my grandchildren.

I am looking for comments and suggestions on this piece. Also I have no idea what to list as to the insurance value on my NRA firearms policy. Any assistance would be appreciated. See Photos.

Mike Brouty
NRA Life Member
Sons of Confederate Veterans Member Camp #1913

[ssgtmike]

Re: Restored Confederate 1853 Enfield

Confederate Stamp in buttplate, JS stamp with anchor is there but so faint it has to be viewed with a magnifying glass. I can't get a good photo of it.

[Jimmayo]

Re: Restored Confederate 1853 Enfield

How about measuring the barrel length. Also post some close up pictures of the barrel proof marking, trigger guard including the 3 or 4 inches of wood in front of it and behind it, front of the barrel showing ramrod and barrel thickness and any other markings on the stock. This is critical information if you want some good comments.

[Prodical Reb]

Re: Restored Confederate 1853 Enfield

The last pic shows the cosmetic problem. The last 1/3 of the stock has been removed for one reason or another; lots of possibilities of (both during and post war) why it is gone. Having procurred a replacement barrel definitely shows the shortened stock. Looks odd without the 3rd band. It's definitely looks an original lock and stock. What is stamped on the inside of the lock plate and works? Where did the barrel and bands come from? You/Douglas used the Baddely (4th type/style) bands. If it were a L.A. Co. gun I would expect it but not a "TOWER" of that date. Palmer bands would be correct.

replacement barrel and bands detract a great deal in value.

I'd place a value of not more than a defarbed English Parker-Hale in good order and maybe less. About $800 at retail.

Maybe Tim Prince, College Hill Arsenal will see this and post more accurate info.