This model was approved by the Ordnance Department on February 9, 1863.  The principal changes from the Model 1861 were: band springs omitted, the flat bands were replaced by screw held, oval bands; the clean-out screw was omitted in the shortened cone seat; the ramrod was straight without swell and was held by a ramrod spring; the hammer curved out and the lock was case-hardened in blue gray colors.  The band swivel and trigger were bright or blued.  Some were made with nipples, screws and rear sight blued.  The stock was similar to the Model 1861 except that it was not inletted for band springs. 

273,265 Model 1863 rifle muskets were produced at the Springfield Armory between January 1, 1863, and December 31, 1864.

TYPE 2

     This arm, approved December 17, 1863, also patterned on the Model 1861, incorporated the following principal changes from the earlier Model 1863: band springs, seated in front of the solid bright finish band, were reintroduced to eliminate band jumping during firing; the upper and lower bands were solid; rear sight screwed on, instead of mortised in; cone edges slightly rounded.  The ramrod head was knurled and slotted.  The stock was cut for band springs.

This arm was the last of our muzzle-loading, standard infantry shoulder arms.  255,040 Model 1863 Type 2 rifle muskets were produced at the Springfield Armory between January 1, 1864, and December 31, 1865.  The Type 2 is sometimes referred to as the Model 1864. 

     Our specimen is Type 2.  The lock plate behind the lock is marked “1864”.  The top of the barrel is also marked “1864”.  The bands are marked “U”.  The top of the butt plate is marked “US”.  The left side of the barrel is marked “V” “P” and eagle head.  There are two inspector’s cartouches on the left side of the stock “ESA” and “HWL”.  Note the ramrod is not slotted, indicating a Type 1 ramrod.  The bayonet is marked “US”.