Item Description
Original Item: Only One available. This is a VERY early example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, with some features that were removed in the subsequent years. It comes complete with an original bayonet, and steel scabbard with an integral leather frog. This is 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:
MODEL
1873
(EAGLE)
(CROSSED ARROWS)
U.S.
In the years following, the stamping on the breech block was simplified, and the block itself lost the "high arch" underneath. Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, with low serial 20921, overall good metal finish with most proofs still present. The serial number indicates production in 1874, only the second year of production for this famous long rifle. This also means that it is definitely a "Pre-Custer" example, possibly seeing service in the conflicts with Native Americans.
There are some small dents and scratches in the wood, as expected on a rifle this age, but the stock does not appear to have had any major repairs or damage. The stock is only partly proud over the lock plate, indicating it has been worn down and refinished during its long life. This has unfortunately left only "ghosts" of the inspection cartouches, however it has the lovely deep red brown color that only cared for oiled walnut can achieve.
The bore is in very good lightly used condition, with clear lands and grooves, and a mostly bright finish. Both barrel bands are U marked, though there is no marking on the butt plate. Metal finish is a nice lightly worn gray color, with very minor peppering in places. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, standard sliding sight, and standard early pattern ramrod. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD / 1873, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts. This marking only appears on the earliest of Trapdoors, and later they removed the date. The ejector is present and fully functional, as is the lock.
Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: V over a P over a very faint eagle's head, with a faint H over the chamber. The rear sight on this example is very early, and does not have ramped profile of the later ladder sight.
The bayonet is the classic 1873 style triangular socket bayonet, and has retained the original blue finish quite nicely. There are some minor areas of rust spotting, which we have left intact to preserve the patina. It comes in its original steel scabbard, complete with a leather swivel frog, which is marked US on the hinge rosette. It also has a brass double hook installed for attachment to a belt.
This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a VERY EARLY and interesting example of a classic U.S. issue firearm, complete with a bayonet. Ready to display!
Specifications-
Year of Manufacture: 1874
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 32 Inches
Overall Length: 52 Inches
Action type: Hinged Breechblock with side action lock.
Feed System: Single Shot
Note: This gun is NOT considered obsolete calibre, so we are no able to ship to the United Kingdom. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services.
- This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey
This product is available for international shipping.
Note: This gun is NOT considered obsolete calibre, so we are no able to ship to the United Kingdom.
IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to possess, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.
These antique guns are not sold in "live" condition. They are sold as collector's items or as "wall hangers". Any attempt at restoring an antique gun to be operational is strongly discouraged and is done so at the risk of the customer. By purchasing an antique gun from IMA you thereby release IMA, its employees and corporate officers from any and all liability associated with use of our Antique guns.
Pre-1899 Manufacture, no licenses required, allowed to ship to almost any deliverable address across the globe. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
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