Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Rifle Shortened to Artillery Carbine Made in 1884 - Serial 243476

Original Item: Only One available. This is a very interesting example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, which was shortened by about 7 inches during service to a nice "Artillery Carbine" length. We have seen a few of these previously, and we're not sure if this was an official pattern from Springfield, or one used at state and local arsenals.

This was 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. The breech block is marked:

U.S.
MODEL
1873

Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, with Serial #243476 stamped on the rear of the receiver, which indicates production in approximately May 1884, per U.S. Government records. The stock is in very good original condition, with lots of character and a great dark red-brown color showing lovely grain. It is however below the level of the lock plate and other fittings, so it definitely was reconditioned at arsenal when it was shortened. This unfortunately has removed all of the original stock cartouches that would have been present.

The bore is in excellent condition, with a bright finish and crisp lands and grooves. It looks to have seen only light use, and was properly cleaned after the last time it was used. We can see just a bit of past fouling in the grooves. The breech block moves correctly, and the extractor is still present and functional along with the ejector, though we have not tested it with real brass. The model 1879 rear sight works well, and has all the internal springs present as far as we can see, though it is a bit stiff at present.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and both barrel bands are U marked. The metal finish is just lovely, with the original blued finish faded to plum overall, with no signs of major past oxidation on the exterior. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, standard model 1879 sliding sight, and standard ramrod (cut down). Lock is marked with a Federal Eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, indicating that it was manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: an R over the chamber, and a V over a P over an eagle's head over another P on the left side just above the stock. The upper right corner of the standard M1879 sliding sight leaf and the left side of the ramp are marked R to indicate that the sight graduations are for a rifle and not a carbine.

This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a very interesting example of a classic U.S. issue firearm. Ready to research and display!

Specifications:-

Year of Manufacture: 1884
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 25 1/2 Inches
Overall Length: 45 Inches
Action type: Hinged Breechblock with side action lock.
Feed System: Single Shot

NOTE: This gun is NOT considered obsolete calibre, so we are not able to ship to the United Kingdom. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.