Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor M1873 Rifle Socket Bayonet with U.S. Scabbard & Experimental Belt Hook Hanger - Rare
In stock
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Original Item: Only One Available. The model 1873 "Trapdoor" Springfield was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the United States Army. The gun, in both full-length and carbine versions, was widely used in subsequent battles against the American Indians. It was 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 model 1873 was the fifth variation of the Allin trapdoor design, which was originally developed by Erskine S. Allin to convert Springfield model 1861 and 1863 rifled muskets into breech-loading cartridge firearms. The rifle was named for its hinged breechblock, which opened like a trapdoor. The infantry rifle model featured a 325⁄8-inch (829 mm) barrel, while the cavalry carbine used a 22-inch (560 mm) barrel. Both were chambered for the new .45-70 "Government" cartridge.
As the barrel was slightly less wide than the rifled muskets it replaced, the design of the current bayonet required alteration of the socket. Aside from this, the bayonet design was identical to the Rifled Musket version. It consists of a standard socket, which locks over the barrel and front sight, and has an attached 18 inch long triangular hollow-ground blade.
This is an excellent and very rare example with an experimental leather belt hook hanger used during the 1880s, very seldom encountered and the first we’ve seen.
The bayonet itself has the U S stamp on the ricasso. The locking ring moves easily, and still has the correct securing screw. The bayonet is in overall great condition with some oxidation spotting, with the bluing on the blade in good shape.
The bayonet comes complete with its original steel scabbard, with the very rare 1800s period experimental belt hook hanger. The scabbard, like the bayonet, was not refinished. It now has some heavy rust speckling. The leather frog is in good shape, with cracking and flaking in the black finish, and has a very interesting hook and grommet system with the correct US rosette.
A very nice U.S. Trapdoor socket bayonet, complete with original experimental scabbard. Ready to fit your Springfield 1873 Trapdoor Rifle!
Specifications:
Blade Length: 18"
Blade Style: Triangular
Overall length: 21“
Scabbard Length: 21 5/8" including belt hook
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