A Palmer Patent Bolt Action Carbine by Lamson, Model 1865. 37 ¼” overall with 20” round barrel, chambered for the Spencer .50 rimfire cartridge, five groove rifling, receiver top stamped 'WM. PALMER / PATENT / DEC. 22. 1863', fitted with leaf sights & blade fore-sight, lock plate marked in front of the hammer "U.S. E.G. Lamson & Co. Windsor VT", dated "1865" on the tail. Bolt action, with small bolt opening breach with a quarter turn. One piece half stock with inspector’s stamp (MM) M. Moulton, one barrel band and sling ring.
Dated 1865
In very good condition with much original finish
The bolt action mechanism utilized on this carbine was patented by William Palmer in 1863, and the patent rights purchased by E. G. Lamson & Co. who produced just 1001 for the U.S. Ordnance in 1865. They arrived too late for Civil War issue and were relegated to store until sold off as unissued surplus. The Palmer has the honour of being the first bolt action rifle acquired by the American military.