Serial # 908 Scarce Prussian Dreyse Model 1857 cavalry needle carbine made at the Dreyse, Sommerda factory in the 1857, as indicated by the markings on the receiver. 15.43 caliber. The Dreyse needle gun is a military breach loader. The gun was the invention of the gunsmith Johann Nikolaus von Dreyse, who in 1836 produced the first complete needle-gun. It became famous as the main battle weapon of the Prussians, who adopted it for service in 1841. Its name comes from the needle-like firing pin, which passed through the paper cartridge case to impact a percussion cap at the bullet base. The Dreyse is also the first breech-loader to use the bolt action to open and close the chamber, executed by turning and pulling a bolt handle. Matching serial numbers on receiver, barrel, bolt, and firing pin encasement. All the serial numbers are original. Numerous German proofs on metal. The left side of the receiver and barrel displays the Prussian Eagle. The left side of the octagonal part of the barrel displays Prussian Crown over "FW". Brass buttplate and trigger guard. Iron nose cap. Steel barrel rifled with four grooves. Full length walnut stock. Manufactured without barrel bands. Saddle ring is located behind the trigger guard. No provision for the cleaning rod. Features a 15" barrel. Bore is strong. Metal is brown patina. Action works fine. Wood is excellent with no cracks or chips, just a few minor battle bruises. Very scarce early carbine in much better than average condition.