Original War of 1812 Rare U.S. Model 1808 Contract Musket by Oliver Bidwell Converted to Percussion German Mauser 98k K98 1944 on the side of

1944 on the side of the head which translates to Approved for use in cold weather

and the scabbard throat when it is installed

and it is marked on the top of the barrel by maker JOHN DERR

probably from using it as a prying tool

- Early detachable Walnut Butt Stock without British Modified Sling Location and Cross Screws

Original War of 1812 Rare U.S. Model 1808 Contract Musket by Oliver Bidwell Converted to Percussion German Mauser 98k K98 1944 on the side ofOriginal item: One of a Kind. Now this is something we do not see every day! This is a very early American Model 1808 Flintlock Musket, made very much in the style of the Model 1795 patterned not long after the end of the U. S. Revolution. At the time the Arsenal and Armory at Springfield was still relatively small, so due to this there were often contracts issued for this and later muskets. In 1808, the U. S. Government issued contracts to numerous