Original U.S. Brown Mfg. Co. No. 46 Ballard’s Patent Falling Block Rifle Serial 21352 – c. 1869-1873

Original Item: One Only. The Ballard rifle system was invented and patented by Charles H. Ballard of Worcester, Mass in November 1861. During the civil war, various companies were employed under contract to manufacture a carbine version, which saw use in the U.S. Civil War. After the war ended, manufacture was continued for both commercial and a few government contracts.