Looking for info on another old Musket

[TonyF]

Hi all, while I’m waiting on an answer on another musket
I’m also looking at a Springfield musket 1827 dated (model 1816) percussion conversion. Fellow is saying it’s 50” in length.
Barrel has a dovetail cutout for a rear sight?
Would this model even had a rear sight originally?
Middle and front barrel bands are very close together and barrel has no bayonet lug. To me looks like another shortened barrel but I’d like your input and opinions.
I attached a few pictures,
Thanks again in advance.
Tony

 

[Grayrock Volunteer]

When made in 1827 it didn't have a rear sight. That notch was added by Hewes and Phillips in 1862/3 when they percussion converted it. The alteration date should be stamped atop the breech. They also replaced the front sight during the alteration. Originally it was a low profile brass sight on the lower strap of the top barrel band. To make used of the new rear sight they installed a taller iron sight on the top band's forward strap.
The barrel has been cut down from its original 42 inch length, and the stock trimmed back as well. This was not mart of the H&P conversion.

 

[Conquerordie]

The H&P stands for Hewes and Phillips. They converted flintlocks muskets to percussion during the early years of the civil war. Yes the conversions had a variety of rear sights, which is missing on this one. It's probably been rifled. But like the other musket you are looking at, this has been cut down, and it's value is lower than a complete example

 

[TonyF]

Gentleman,I appreciate all the great information.
So would these have been shortened to make them more easily carried or possibly because the end of the barrel or stock was damaged?
I guess there’s no definitive way of determining?