Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice early 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 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 excellent restored condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, Serial # 80326, indicating production in 1878, quite early in production. At some point, it was returned to Springfield Armory, and updated to 1884 standards, a common practice in the late 19th century Government arms supply chain. This involved swapping out the rear ladder sight for the new adjustable "Buffington" rear sight, along with the correct inlet lower barrel band. At this time the model 1873 smooth trigger was also replaced with an 1884 pattern serrated type, though the two part trigger guard was left as is.

After that, it was returned to service, and at some later point fully restored, with all of the metalwork and woodwork refinished. This was very well executed, with almost all of the markings on the metalwork being preserved. The stock markings suffered a bit more, and the lock plate is now even with the level of the stock. However the varnish has really brought out the color and grain in the walnut, making this a very attractive offering.

The bore is in very good condition, with a bright finish, and clear lands and grooves. There is just a bit of light oxidation in areas, and little sign of wear or use. The ejector is present, and functions correctly, though we have not tested it with real brass. The Buffington rear sight works well, though it is a bit stiff, especially the windage adjustment.

The two barrel bands are correctly U marked, though the U.S. on the butt plate tang was removed during restoration. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, Buffington sight, and standard ramrod. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts.

There is a ghost of the stylized P in a circle under the wrist of the stock indicates that the rifle passed all of its overpressure proof testing. Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: two P markings. The V and "Eagle's Head" have been worn away. 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 great opportunity to pick up a very nice example of a classic U.S. issue firearm. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1878
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.

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.