Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice 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 condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, fitted with the a Buffington rear sight, though it has had a rifle graduated leaf fitted to it. It also comes with its original Saddle Ring and Bar on the left hand side of the wood stock.

The serial # 379403 indicates production in 1888, though unfortunately the inspection cartouche is completely worn away. This is definitely a rifle that saw some level of service, based on the overall condition. The breech block is also an earlier 1873 model, most likely replaced at arsenal. The stock is in good original condition, with the expected wear from age and service. It is partly "proud" over the lock plate, so it has not been worn down much on that side, and doesn't show signs of an arsenal refurbish. There is some lovely "curl" to the grain on the left side.

The bore is in very good condition, with a mostly bright finish and clear lands and grooves. The bore does show signs of wear, so this is definitely a carbine that did see use in service. 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. It has the correct butt stock storage compartment for the cleaning rod, and it looks like there is one section of cleaning rod still inside, though it is stuck.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and the front band/guard is U marked. Metal finish is quite good, with the original blue faded to a lovely gray patina over most areas. There is some staining but no real rust or pitting. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and carbine Buffington sight. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel, which are somewhat faded: a capital A on top; a V over a P over an eagle's head over another P on the left side just above the stock.

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

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1888
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. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.