I've owned 3 of these rare carbines over the years but this is by far the nicest.  The 8th Cav. saw extensive fighting in the West during the Indian Wars and their guns are usually found in very poor condition when found at all.. As you can see from the pictures this carbine still retains quite a bit of it's original factory finish.  The barrel exhibits a nice blue-brown patina with original blue in the recess'.  On the receiver the case colors have silvered out but are still pretty good on the lock.  The stock has the usual dings associated with frontier use.   There's  a nice wear line on the left butt stock from being carried in a saddle scabbard.  
The 8th Cav. engaged the Indians in numerous battles from the Snake War in 1867 Nevada & Oregon to battling the Apache, Navajo etc. in the Southwest 'til 2 years after the capture of Geronimo in 1886.  They were stationed at various times in Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, South Dakota and Montana.  A really historic Western Carbine. 
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