Original U.S. Civil War Era No. 46 Ballard's Patent Falling Block Long Rifle in .44 Rimfire - Serial 17835 ZB 26-ZB 30 The top of the helmet

The top of the helmet retains the adjustable vent holes

now ground away

Most of the paint has worn off the buckle exterior

As aviation advanced so did the altitudes to which pilots could fly

Original U.S. Civil War Era No. 46 Ballard's Patent Falling Block Long Rifle in .44 Rimfire - Serial 17835 ZB 26-ZB 30 The top of the helmetOriginal Item: One Only. The Ballard is a single shot, breech loading firearm used late during the Civil War. The . 44 caliber, percussion rifle was invented and patented by Charles H. Ballard of Worcester, Mass in November 1861. These were made by 5 different contractors, however there is not one marked on this example. It also is in a long rifle configuration, which we have not had before. It measures 45 1 4 inches long overall, with a 30 inch round