Original Item: Only One available. This is a VERY early example of the classic Springfield trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine, with some features that were removed in the subsequent years. This was the weapon used by the troopers of the 7th Cavalry that met their fate at the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876, and this weapon was produced before that time! While we doubt that it was at that battle, a collector at some time did attach a 7th Cavalry brass insignia to the right side of the butt stock, which looks to be original, but definitely not original to the gun, as they did not add markings or insignia like that.

The breech block is marked:

MODEL
1873
(EAGLE)
(CROSSED ARROWS)
U.S.

These are the early pattern markings, and the block has the correct "High Arch" underneath. In the years following, the stamping on the breech block was simplified, and the arch made lower. Another big change was the addition of a cleaning rod channel to the stock, as after Little Bighorn the U.S. Army concluded that access to cleaning rods during the battle would have been advantageous for removing lodged shell casings. This necessitated a sturdier stock with a shorter and thicker wrist, however this carbine still has the original "Long Wrist" stock.

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 25007, which indicates production in approximately June 1874, per U.S. Government records. Production only started in September 1873, so this was made during the first year of production! There are no cartouches remaining on the stock, due to overall wear.

From what we can tell, this carbine was returned to arsenal at some point, and the original "2 notch" tumbler on the lock replaced with the later 3 notch type. Everything else however was left correct. It still has the original M1873 Carbine rear sight, numbered 1 to 5 on the right side, with numbered up to 12 on the sight ladder (rifles went 1 to 4 and up to 11 on the ladder). The carbine has an overall very good metal finish, showing a great plum patina in most areas. The stock is in very good condition, with a lovely color. It does show some wear, but does not appear to have been refurbished at any time. The stock is still proud over the lock plate in many areas, so there is definitely minimal wood missing. The stock is however a bit dark from use.

The bore is in good condition, still showing strong lands and grooves, however there is also a lot of oxidation and fouling in the bore, which we were not able to remove easily. Lead and powder fouling are unfortunately quite resistant to the usual mechanical cleaning methods we use. 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.

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 and receiver, which were originally case hardened. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and fully functional carbine M1873 rear ladder sight. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD / 1873, manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts. This is the early pattern lock plate, but it was retrofitted with a 3 notch tumbler at arsenal.

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

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1874
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.

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, and are not tested for the the ability to feed or load any type of cartridge. They are sold as collector's items or as "wall hangers" not for use, and we make no guarantees regarding functionality aside from what is stated in the description. 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.