The Richmond Armory Carbine is one of the Confederacy's most recognizable and desirable cavalry arms, manufactured at the C.S. Armory in Richmond, Virginia, during the Civil War. Production is estimated at approximately 5,400 carbines, with most following the standard pattern of a 25-inch barrel and an overall length of 40½ inches.
This example is a fine, honest survivor, with the date 1864 on the lock. The stock remains in fine condition, displaying the characteristic Richmond "mule shoe" inletting behind lock plate, along with the expected handling marks, nicks, and dings acquired through military service and long-term storage. The brass nose cap and butt-plate have developed an attractive, untouched age patina, while all iron components retain a pleasing dark "as found" finish, showing no evidence of modern cleaning.
The "V / P / Eagle" inspection mark is clearly visible on the barrel flat. Pitting around the bolster has obscured the barrel date, but the remaining markings are well preserved. The rear sight is the proper Richmond pattern, although it appears to be a period replacement. An interesting feature of this carbine is the absence of the threaded rear sling swivel mounted behind the trigger guard, a variation occasionally encountered on Richmond-produced carbines.
An attractive, original Confederate cavalry arm with excellent eye appeal, desirable untouched surfaces, and the distinctive characteristics collectors look for in an authentic Richmond Armory carbine. This example is in far better condition than most, since most carbines saw hard service.