Early Civil War Era *No Background Check*
Designed by noted firearms inventor James Warner of Springfield, Massachusetts, the Warner Carbine is one of the scarcer Union cavalry carbines produced during the American Civil War. Introduced in 1864, it represents the rapid technological shift from muzzle-loading arms to metallic cartridge breech-loading firearms that transformed military small arms during the war.
This example is marked:
"JAMES WARNER SPRINGFIELD, MASS."
"WARNER'S PATENT"
These markings identify the rifle as a Warner Patent Carbine manufactured during the Civil War period. James Warner was an experienced firearms designer who had previously worked with Eli Whitney and later served as superintendent of the Springfield Arms Company before developing his innovative breech-loading carbine.
Unlike traditional muzzle-loading muskets of the era, the Warner utilized a hinged breechblock allowing the shooter to load a metallic cartridge directly into the chamber. The design featured a brass receiver, iron barrel, walnut stock, and distinctive saddle ring for cavalry carry. The falling hammer locked the breech closed during firing, an innovative feature covered under Warner's patents.
Only approximately 1,501 Warner Carbines were manufactured for U.S. military contracts, making them among the scarcer Civil War-issued cavalry carbines encountered today. Most were produced in 1864 by the Massachusetts Arms Company for Union cavalry service. Their limited production, distinctive brass receiver, and unique operating mechanism have made them highly sought after by Civil War collectors and students of early American firearms development.
Features
- Manufacturer: James Warner / Massachusetts Arms Company
- Model: Warner Patent Carbine
- Caliber: .50 Rimfire (original chambering)
- Single-shot breech-loading action
- Brass receiver
- Iron barrel
- Walnut stock and forearm
- Saddle ring mounted on left side
- Civil War era manufacture
- Receiver marked "JAMES WARNER SPRINGFIELD, MASS. / WARNER'S PATENT"
The Warner Carbine occupies an important place in American firearms history as one of the earliest successful metallic cartridge military carbines adopted by the U.S. government. Its limited production, innovative design, and direct association with the Union cavalry make it a standout addition to any Civil War, antique firearms, or early American military collection.
Antique firearm. Please review all photographs carefully to evaluate condition, originality, markings, and overall configuration prior to bidding.
