This rare Civil War bayonet is the Model 1863 and was designed for the .58 calibre Remington 1863 muzzle loading rifle, nicknamed the "Zouave Rifle." This black powder rifle was also referred to as the "Harpers Ferry Pattern" in official Army documents. Only 12,501 model 1863 Remington rifles were manufactured between 1863 and 1865.
The 505mm single-edged blade has a very slight curve with a thick, flat spine that terminates in a 140mm double-edged spear point. The blade was service sharpened and has a few tiny edge nicks. The blade is in very good condition with a small patch of shallow pitting and mild tarnish on both sides towards the point.
The ricasso is stamped with the letter “S.” The obverse ricasso is blank.
The cast brass hilt is in good condition with some age and use related marks and small dings. The crosspiece is stamped with the letter “C” and the obverse is stamped with an “L.” The front of the crosspiece is also stamped with a “C.”
The brass grip has 15 ribs and a sharp birds’ beak pommel. The flattened back of the grip is stamped with the letters “B. H.” The press-stud and external spring catch works perfectly.
The bayonet is complete with its original brass mounted leather scabbard. The scabbard is in poor condition and is missing the brass chape. The leather is stiff and retains most of its original finish but there is a small piece missing along the seam and the stitching has long since perished. The brass locket has a round frog stud that is stamped with the letter “C.”
This is a good example of a rare American Civil War bayonet.
