Original U.S. Rare Springfield Trapdoor Model 1881 "Forager" 20 Gauge Shotgun - Serial 274

Original Item: Only One available. Here is something that we have not had before! A rare Springfield Model 1881 "Forager", a 20 gauge shotgun version of the weapon used, in its carbine form, by the troopers of the 7th Cavalry that met their fate at the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876.

At the suggestion of Colonel J.C. Kelton (Assistant Adjutant-General, Military Division of the Pacific and Department of California), the US Army adopted a 20ga shotgun version of the Trapdoor Springfield in 1881. Built at a truly minimal cost using reconditioned 1873 actions and condemned .58 caliber barrels bored out to .635 inch (20 gauge), these Model 1881 shotguns had only three new parts (extractor, front sight bead, and screw lug attached to the barrel). A total of 1,376 were made by 1884, and two were issued to each infantry company stationed west of the Mississippi.

The purpose was to give soldiers some recreation and also a way to add some fresh game to the rather stagnant rations of barracks life in the post-Civil-War western Army. They were very well liked, and remained in posts until at least 1900. They were often used to destruction and/or disposed of when taken out of service, so they are definitely rare on the market. Compared to the other Models, these are minimally marked, with just an 1881 on the top of the breech block in addition to the lock and receiver markings. In this case, the receiver is marked faintly with 274, but we assume this is a new marking, and not the original serial number.

The design does not feature any barrel bands, with the stock secured with a screw to the barrel, going through where the cleaning rod channel used to be. Metal finish is a nice worn gray patina, with very minor peppering in places. The front of the barrel is equipped with a brass bead sight, and a groove was added to the top of the breech block and receiver for sighting. Lock is marked with an Eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD / 1873, manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts. This is a first pattern lock plate with the early markings, and it still retains the early "Two Notch" tumbler! The stock is in very good shape, and still shows evidence of the filled cleaning rod channel. It shows evidence of long service, but no major damage.

A great chance to pick up a rare Springfield Trapdoor Model 1881 Shotgun, the first that we have ever had! Ready to research and display!

Specifications:-

Years of Manufacture: circa 1873 - converted 1880s
Caliber: 20 Gauge
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 26 Inches
Overall Length: 45 1/4 Inches
Action type: Hinged Breechblock with side action lock.
Feed System: Single Shot

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