Item:
ONSV22KJM49

Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1884 Rifle with Standard Ram Rod made in 1889 - Serial 436168

Item Description

Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice interesting example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, 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 marking has been removed for some reason, but originally should have said:

U.S.
MODEL
1884

In 1884 the integral Round Rod Bayonet was designed, which could double as a cleaning rod, a development that met with very limited success. However, it was not fitted to all rifles, and not usually seen until at least 1886. There are also examples of the "Model 1880" configuration produced during all time periods. It was finally replaced in 1892 with the .30-40 caliber Krag bolt action magazine rifle.

Model 1884 rifles saw service in the Spanish American War. The regular army was issued the new Krag rifles and the guard units received the trapdoor. There are a number of stereopticon pictures that show guard units armed with of 1884 rifles.

Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, Serial # 436168, which indicates production in approximately March 1889, per U.S. Government records. It features a standard ramrod, and was not later updated do the "1888" pattern. The rifle has overall very good metal finish and all metal proofs still present, with a nice aged blue finish. It has the model 1884 Buffington sight fitted, along with the correct lower barrel band. However, the stock is in the 1873 configuration, with the standard ramrod and two part trigger guard over a smooth trigger. This rifle may have been returned to arsenal for refurbishment, and parts on hand were used.

The wood stock looks great, with a great red-brown color and minimal dents or other damage visible. The stock is however well below the level of the lock plate, so it has definitely been arsenal reconditioned and refinished., This has unfortunately removed the dated inspection cartouche and any other markings that were present, which would have helped trace the history.

The bore is in very good condition, with clear lands and grooves and a bright finish. There is just a tiny bit of wear visible on the shoulders of the lands. The breech block moves correctly, and the extractor is still present and functional, though we have not tested it with real brass.

The both barrel bands are U marked, and the butt plate tang is marked with the correct U.S. stamp. Metal finish is very good, with strong bluing present on most of the barrel and fittings. There is also some of the original case hardened finish on the receiver, with the rest faded to a speckled patina. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, Buffington sight, with standard ramrod. The lock is marked with the Federal Eagle to the left of U.S. / SPRINGFIELD marking, indicating manufacture by Springfield Armory in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: a capital A on top 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 Buffington sight leaf is 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 nice interesting example of a classic U.S. issue firearm. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1889
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 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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