Item:
ONJR23CAJ06

Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873/84 Saddle Ring Carbine serial 143969 - made in 1880

Item Description

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
1884

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 on the receiver is 143969, which indicates production in approximately December 1880, per U.S. Government records. However, it definitely looks like it was returned to either a Federal or State arsenal at some point, and had parts replaced from another carbine. This was relatively common during the service life of the Trapdoor, which was still in service at the state level well into the 1890s, and possibly later.

The carbine features a Model 1879 rear ladder sight, and a two part trigger guard, however the rest of the components look to be in the Model 1884 configuration. This includes the "1884" marked breech block, the barrel band inlet for a "Buffington" rear sight, and the serrated trigger.

The carbine has an overall very good metal finish, with most proofs still present. There is some light pitting on the left side of the breech block, but the finish is otherwise very well retained. The stock is in good condition, with a lovely color. It does show wear, especially on the left hand side (probably from the saddle), but does not appear to have been refurbished at any time. The stock is still at or above (proud) the level of the lock plate, which indicates that it has not had wood removed, which would be done if it ha been refurbished. While it shows a lot of dents and dings, there are no cracks or repairs we can see.

The bore is in very good condition, with a mostly bright finish and clear lands and grooves. There is just a bit of wear, as well as what looks to be a ring of oxidation near the muzzle, possibly from a misfired bullet. 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 worn to a lovely faded blue patina overall, with a mottled patina on the breech block, which was originally case hardened. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and fully functional carbine M1879 rear ladder sight. Lock is marked with an eagle to the left of 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: an R over the chamber, as well as 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 rifle and not a carbine.

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

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1880
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.

  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

    This product is available for international shipping.
  • Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon

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