A 19th Century Austro-Hungarian percussion cavalry carbine

A 19th Century Austro-Hungarian percussion cavalry carbine, rifles and sighted barrel 14 in., lock with imitation Tower markings added by the Birmingham gun trade, converted from the Augustin system to conventional percussion ignition, stocked to within 4.5 in. of the muzzle, steel furniture including saddle ring and trigger guard with finger rest. Large numbers of this model were sold out of Austrian service to the Union forces at the start of the American civil war; many were subsequently bought by the Birmingham gun trade and sold on to Africa, with 'Tower' marks added to enhance their market appeal.

Ref. Harriman, Bill, 'Gunroom', Shooting Times and Country Magazine. Photocopy offered with this lot.