Merrimack manufactured Ballard firearms from 1867 to 1869. This 44 rimfire caliber sporting rifle has a 26″ octagon barrel which has a very good bore with bright shiny rifling and a few areas of light erosion. The barrel has a pleasing smooth brown patina. It is equipped with a blade front sight and a two position rear sight (one leaf broken). In addition, a tang peep sight is installed. The top flat of the barrel is marked with the caliber, No. 44, and the serial number which is matching on the frame and forend. The frame is silvered with brown staining. It is marked MERRIMACK ARMS & MFG. CO. over NEWBURYPORT MASS. over BALLARD’S PATENT over NOV. 5, 1861 (somewhat indistinct due to a light stamping and light surface oxidation). The stocks are very good with usage dents and dings and what appears to be original varnish. The action functions correctly. Six companies manufactured Ballard firearms over about 30 years starting with the Ball & Williams Civil War era arms. The majority were made by Marlin between 1875 and 1891. The Merrimack Arms Ballard had a fairly low production of about 2,200. This rifle will nicely fit your single shot or Ballard collection.