The Rifle Musket

All specifications were the same as the Model 1861 except for the following details. The lockplate was a slightly different configuration and the hammer was 'S' shaped. The bolster was shorter with a flat surface without a clean out screw. Three iron bands were of split clamping type thereby eliminating the band springs. Finally the ramrod was made 1/10 in larger without a swell and retained in the stock by a ramrod spoon. This model was produced by Amoskeag, The Colt Patent Firearms Co. of Hartford Ct. and Lamson, Goodnow & Yale of Windsor Vt. All the parts from these three contractors were interchangeable and only differed in the lockplate markings used by the various firms. However, not all parts are interchangeable with the other US Rifle Muskets.

As a result of Colt's modifications for its SPECIAL MODEL 1861, Springfield alterations to the MODEL 1861 included a flat 'S' shaped hammer with faceted sides, shortend flat faced bolster without a cleanout screw, round clamping barrel bands, elimination of band springs and a straight spring held ramrod, which was the same diameter as the special model.

Because the clamped barrel bands had became loose after prolonged firing Springfield reintroduced band springs with rounded barrel bands. A new single pierced leaf was adopted and was installed on some arms. This model was the last regulation model muzzleloader produced for the U.S. ARMY. The future belonged to breechloaders.