This old rifle came out of South Arkansas, picked up at a gunshow in a small town , along with a cavalry sabre, the man that sold it said it was his Confederate ancestor's,The rifle has been shortened to a two band, the length is close to several I have seen with Confederate connections, mounted infantry, the bands were filed low on top, for better sighting, a blade front sight was added, a rear sight was added, as the dovetail was disturbed, but sight now missing, the trigger guard bow was turned around placing the ( now missing ) sling swivel to the rear. There are some letters, or initials carved in the stock . This old piece has a heavy dark patina, probably stored in an old barn or smokehouse