British Army Pattern 2** Snider .577 Centerfire Rifle (AL5190)

British Army Pattern 2** Snider .577 Centerfire rifle. The overall length is approximately 55”. The 36½” round barrel has a fair bore with areas of pitting. The barrel has three proof marks. The top of the chamber is stamped “II/*/*”. The breech block is marked “L.S.A.C.” with a small proof mark behind it. L.S.A.C. (London Small Arms Company) performed the conversion from a percussion muzzle-loading rifle-musket to a breech-loading .577 caliber centerfire rifle. The lock is marked in the center “1859/Enfield” with crown/broad arrow forward and a very small “14” at the top front. The tail has the crown/VR. The barrel has a gray/brown patina and the lock, action, and hammer exhibit a smooth brown patina. The bands are bright with areas of light pitting. The brass nose cap, trigger guard, and butt plate are fine. The stock is very good with no cracks or chips. The right side of the butt is marked from top to bottom “4/35/ round Enfield stamp/5/1867”. The 5/1867 denotes the May 1867 conversion date. The butt plate tang is marked “62/158”. The action functions correctly. The pattern 2** was introduced in May 1867, so this is an early example. All Snider rifles and carbines are scarce. This is a very presentable example to fill that hole in your collection.