Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine Serial 175803★ - Made in 1882

Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice example of the classic Springfield trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine, the weapon used 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, complete with its original Saddle Ring and Bar on the left hand side of the wood stock. The serial number is 175803★, which indicates production in approximately February 1882, per U.S. Government records, with stock inspection in 1882. The "Star" after the serial number has been a cause of debate for years, but it is generally accepted to mean that it was "made with a combination of new and salvaged parts, to be held in reserve, or issued to and/or used by groups like the National Guard." (Please See the Springfield Trapdoor FAQ at armscollector.com for more information).

There is unfortunately no way to tell whether this rifle was returned to arsenal after production, or whether it was originally produced using the "salvaged" parts. The stock inspection cartouche is no longer present either, which might be able to help trace the history. It is completely in the Model 1873 configuration, except for the serrated trigger, however that may have been installed originally.

The carbine has an overall very nice metal finish, showing a mottled light gray patina, with most proofs still present. There is not any major oxidation such as pitting to the exterior, but there is evidence of past peppering, now partly cleaned away. This definitely looks like a carbine that saw relatively long use while in service. The stock is in very good condition, with a lovely color. The stock is still at or just above (proud) the level of the lock plate, which indicates that it has not had wood removed, which would be done if it had been refurbished. While it does show some minor dents and dings, there are no cracks or repairs we can see.

The bore is in good condition, showing clear lands and grooves with a partly bright finish. There is wear to the lands, and some evidence of past fouling, so this is definitely a carbine that saw a good amount of use while in service. The breech block moves correctly, and the extractor is still present and functional, though we have not tested it with real brass. The saddle ring bar is still present, with the correct saddle ring present. It has the correct butt stock storage compartment for the cleaning rod, though it is unfortunately empty.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and the front band is U marked. The metalwork has been is in really nice condition, without any major oxidation issues, and some areas looking to have been reblued. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and a working carbine M1879 rear ladder sight. Lock is marked with a Federal Eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, 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, which are still clear: 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 M1879 standard sliding sight leaf and the left side of the ramp are marked C to indicate that the sight graduations are for a carbine and not a rifle.

This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a lovely patinated example of a legendary U.S. issue firearm. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1882
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 22 Inches
Overall Length: 41 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.