British Military Pattern 1853 Enfield Musket (AL5939)

This British Army issue percussion Pattern 1853 was manufactured in 1861. The 39" 61 calibeer smooth bore barrel has a very good bore. The polished barrel is bright with a few scattered stains. The London proof marks are visible but indistinct. The spring fastened bands are bright. The lock, which is a mixture of brown and bright, is marked 1861 over TOWER with the military crown-broad arrow forward and the crown over VR at the tail. The stock is very good with a couple of old areas of missing wood at the ramrod channel, added finish, and no cracks or chips. The right side of the butt has the WD with broad arrow and HS forward of that. There are two crown inspection stamps to the rear of the trigger guard tang and the stockeers name is on the left flat. The brass trigger guard, buttplate, and nose cap are fine. The swivels and ramrod are present and it is equipped with a tarred sling (anval use?). The action functions correctly. This musket was most likely issued to an Indian Army NCO or used by the British Navy. Take your pick. It would be a fit in any British military long arm collection.