Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice service used example of the classic Springfield trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine, the weapon used 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:

Offered in very good service used condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, fitted with the correct Buffington rear sight and original Saddle Ring and Bar on the left hand side of the wood stock. It also includes the correct Saddle Carbine band guard, which cradles the rear sight ladder and prevents it from getting caught in the saddle bucket. Most of the carbines we see do not have these, and they are somewhat hard to find.

Carbines so equipped are considered by many to be "Model 1890" carbines, and many 1873, 1877, and 1884 carbines were altered in a similar fashion. How much modification they received would depend on the current configuration of the carbine when received back at arsenal. Earlier carbines would have the entire stock replaced, while model 1884s would mainly have the rear band replaced with the sight protector, and a front sight protector equipped as well. Details of the aforementioned modifications were referenced from the Joe Poyer and Craig Riesch publication, The .45-70 Springfield, fifth edition.

The serial # 451266 on the rear of the receiver indicates production in approximately July 1889, per U.S. Government records. The stock is in good original condition, with the expected wear from age and service. The stock is at or below the level of the lock plate, so this carbine has definitely been worn down a bit due to cleaning and arsenal service. There are some missing chunks around the lock plate, somewhat common due to oxidation that can occur there, which degrades the wood. The stock has been refinished, and definitely is a well-worn example, with a look that is impossible to duplicate.

The bore is in good condition, showing clear lands and grooves, but also wear and past fouling and oxidation. This is a carbine that saw extensive use, most likely out on the western frontier. The spent cartridge ejector is present and functional, though we have not tested it on actual brass. This carbine is correctly fitted with the butt stock storage compartment, where a multi-piece cleaning rod and tools would be stored. Unfortunately these are long gone, and it is empty. The carbine has also lost the front sight protector that model 1890s were equipped with.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and the front band/guard is unmarked, as is correct. Metal finish has faded to a polished peppered patina, with some areas of the original blue maintained. There is not any major oxidation or rust that we can see. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and carbine Buffington sight. Lock is marked VERY faintly with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts. The upper right corner of the Buffington sight leaf is marked C to indicate that the sight graduations are for a carbine and not a rifle. The other markings such as the barrel and stock cartouches are unfortunately worn away.

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

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1889 - updated later.
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.