Model 1860 carbine modifications

[Wdcalhoun2]

Anyone have an idea of the purpose of this modification???
Cavalry sling mount of some kind?

Thanks!

[matt45]

Do you mean the saddle ring?
     If that is the case, they were standard on U.S. cavalry carbines from the Civil War to the Krag.  Troopers had a shoulder strap with a clip on the end that would hook into the ring, as they were not equipped with a scabbard.

[Trailrider]

Yup! Standard sling ring, not saddle ring. Cavalry trooper wore a leather strap with a two-prong center-bar buckle from the left shoulder across the body.  A large swivel snap was hooked into the carbine's ring.  The barrel of the carbine was inserted into a leather socket attached to the cinch when the trooper mounted.  It was possible for the barrel to get hung up in the socket, which could hold the trooper to the horse if it went down.  Later, the socket was made in a "C" shape with a metal lining, so the barrel could be pulled through it to disengage!  Purpose of this arrangement was to allow the trooper to draw the carbine, but let it hang from him if he needed to use both hands, either to help control the horse or to draw his saber or revolver.