Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice 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 marking is faded, but originally would have read:

Offered in very nice condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, Serial # 44835, which indicates production in approximately March 1876, per U.S. Government records. The metalwork on the rifle has definitely been refinished at some time in the past, which has removed the proofs from the barrel, and made the serial number slightly faint. It still retains most of this finish, and really has a great look. It comes complete with an old leather Springfield Trapdoor leather sling, which still has both keepers intact. It is however definitely in worn relic condition, and removing it from the rifle may require destroying it.

The stock is in very good original condition, with lots of character and great grain. There are some small dents and scratches in the wood, as expected on a rifle this age, but the stock does not appear to have had any major repairs. The stock slightly above the level of the lock plate in places, and below in others, so it definitely has been reconditioned at some time in the past, which removed the stock cartouches.

This rifle was made very early during Model 1873 production, so originally it would probably have had an early pattern "high arch" breech block with early markings and a dated lock. However it definitely looks like it was sent back to arsenal at some point after the introduction of the model 1884. It had the original M1873 rear sight replaced with an M1879 rear sight, and the original smooth trigger replaced with a serrated one. It still does retain the early two part trigger guard, and it even has a very early and rare 1st model cleaning rod.

The bore is in very good condition, with a mostly bright finish and clear lands and grooves. There is wear to the lands and a some oxidation in the grooves, but nothing major, and we would rate this a 6-7 out of 10. The ejector is present, and functions correctly, though we have not tested it with real brass. The model 1879 rear sight works well, and is mostly complete, just missing the "windage stops" on the sides, so it can be moved back and forth more than normal.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and both barrel bands are U marked. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, standard model 1879 sliding sight, and standard ramrod. Lock is marked with a Federal Eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, indicating that it was manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts. The upper right corner of the standard sliding sight leaf and the left side of the ramp are 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, with a rare 1st model cleaning rod and sling! Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1875
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.