The 1841 “Mississippi” Rifle

This handsomely rugged 1840s muzzleloader was prized by frontiersmen and military riflemen alike and helped phase out the smoothbore musket.

- PHIL SPANGENBERGER

Although it was officially designated as the U.S. Model 1841 Rifle, it’s best known as the “Mississippi Rifle,” and has borne that moniker for almost as long as it has existed. This percussion muzzleloader was not only favored by government troops, it was much sought after by civilian trekkers crossing the frontier. In its original .54-bore configuration, using a 75-grain charge of black rifle powder, the rifle earned its most popular nickname through its service with Col. Jefferson Davis’ red-shirted militia in the First Mississippi Regiment during the campaigning in Mexico in 1847 and 1848.