Make: Nepali

Model: Pattern 1853 Enfield Rifle-Musket

Serial Number: None.

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1853-1870s

Caliber: .577 Caliber Ball

Action Type: Percussion Ignition, Cap and Ball

Barrel Length: 39 Inches

Markings: The rifle features Nepali script characters scribed on the trigger guard, buttplate, rear sight, and lock plate.

Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a V-notch style with Nepali script markings. The front sight is a barleycorn post fixed to the front of the barrel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood stock is heavily worn, with visible handling marks and cracks. A crack runs through the left side from the lock plate area and extends through the wrist of the stock. The brass buttplate is proud of the stock, and the stock exhibits a patina consistent with age and extensive use.

Type of Finish: The barrel and lock are brown with patina, and the steel components show wear, surface pitting, and age-appropriate corrosion. The brass fittings have been cleaned.

Finish Originality: Brass fittings have been polished. There is no indication of a new finish being applied.

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with worn rifling and shows some light corrosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle shows heavy wear consistent with its age and use. The stock and metal components are well-worn, with surface pitting and patina on the steel and some cracks in the wood. Despite its wear, the musket retains its historical integrity and functionality.

Mechanics: The percussion lock functions correctly, though the lock screw has been replaced.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The steel ramrod is included.

Our Assessment: This Pattern 1853 Enfield Musket is a fascinating piece of history, distinguished by its Nepali script markings on multiple components. Manufactured during a time when the Enfield musket was the standard arm for the British military, this example likely saw service in Nepal. Beginning with the founding of the Rana dynasty in 1846, Nepal was quite friendly with the British, even assisting them to put down the Indian Rebellion of 1857. While there were surely some P53 rifles supplied to the Nepalese, there were also copies made domestically, and this appears to be one such example.

The .577 caliber bore, brown patina on the metal components, and worn stock highlight the rifle’s long history of use. While the stock shows significant handling marks and a crack through the wrist, the musket retains its character and functionality. The brass fittings, including the buttplate and trigger guard, have been cleaned, and the ramrod remains intact. This rifle is ideal for collectors of British or allied military arms, enthusiasts of Nepali history, or those who appreciate antique firearms with unique markings and character. Its script markings and historical significance make it a standout piece for display or further research into its past. So bid high and bid firm. Please take a look at the condition of the rifle in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid.