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. The most noticeable of these is the "Long Wrist" of the butt stock. This example also was outfitted with white metal tacks on both sides of the butt stock, indicating possible capture and use by Native Americans. 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, removing the Eagle and Arrows. Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, with low serial 53993, overall good metal finish most markings still present. The serial number indicates production in 1875, only the third year of production for this famous long rifle. This also indicates that it was made before the Battle of Little Bighorn, so it may have been captured during that time period.
There are some small dents and scratches in the wood, and it definitely saw quite a bit of use. The stock below the level of the lock plate, indicating that it has been sanded down and refinished during its long life. This has unfortunately removed the inspection cartouches on the left side, however it has the lovely deep red brown color that only cared for oiled walnut can achieve. The "long wrist" is preserved very nicely, and is quite comfortable to hold. The bore shows some rifling, but overall is quite oxidized and fouled. Most likely it was not cleaned properly, and then stored for many years.
The butt plate is U.S. marked, and both barrel bands are U marked. Metal finish is a is oxidized, with a lot of light surface rust, and a lovely dark brown patina. 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. Only the earliest locks have the 1873 date, seen on examples made 1873-1875. A stylized P in a circle under the wrist of the stock indicates that the rifle passed all of its overpressure proof testing. The rear sight is missing the slider, and looks to be a period replacement.
This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a VERY EARLY and interesting example of a classic U.S. issue firearm, with a very desirable long-wristed stock and loads of history. Ready to display!
Specifications-
Year of Manufacture: 1875
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
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
