This is a British Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle-Musket, manufactured at the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield in 1863, and later arsenal-converted to the Snider-Enfield breech-loading system. It represents Britain’s first generation of metallic cartridge service rifles, marking the transition from percussion muzzle-loaders to modern breech-loaders.
🔎 Key Details
Model: Enfield P53 Rifle (Snider Conversion)
Year: 1863
Caliber: .577 Snider
Overall Length: ~55 inches
Barrel: ~39 inches, 5-groove rifling, strong bore
Markings: Lockplate marked “1863 ENFIELD” with British military proofs and inspection stamps
Features: Brass buttplate, trigger guard, and furniture; clear inspector cartouches on stock
Condition: Excellent overall – crisp markings, sharp rifling, solid mechanics, well-maintained wood
📜 Historical Significance
Originally the standard British infantry rifle of the mid-19th century
Converted in the 1860s to use the .577 Snider metallic cartridge
Served widely across the British Empire until replaced by the Martini-Henry in the 1870s
A key transitional firearm in Victorian-era military history
⚖️ Collectibility
Authentic 1863-dated Enfield production
Desirable Snider conversion with strong bore and clear proofs
A fine addition for collectors of British Empire arms, black powder shooting, and Victorian military history
