Original Item: Only One available. This is a lovely honest used 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:

Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, with Serial #121275 stamped on the rear of the receiver, which indicates production in approximately January 1880, per U.S. Government records. It shows an overall good metal finish with all proofs still present, and no sign of refinishing or refurbishing to the metalwork. The stock however looks almost brand new, and this rifle was sent back to arsenal to be upgraded to the Model 1884 standard. It was fitted with the "improved" Buffington rear adjustable sight, the correct lower barrel band, and the trigger changed from smooth to serrated. The stock is otherwise still in the model 1873 configuration, with a standard ramrod, two part trigger guard and no butt stock storage compartment. Definitely some interesting history to this rifle!

The stock is in excellent condition, and has had a light varnish applied, which really brings out the color and grain. It is unmarked except for a J under the trigger guard, and there are none of the usual stock inspection cartouches present. It is still FULLY proud over the level of the lock plate, indicating that it has not been refurbished, which would remove wood from the stock. There is also a good amount of "curl" to the grain on the bottom of the stock, making it highly attractive.

The bore is in very good condition, with a mostly bright finish and clear lands and grooves. There are a few traces of oxidation and wear overall, particularly near the muzzle, as well as wear to the lands, so this rifle definitely did see some use in service. We would rate this at an 8 out of 10. The ejector is present, and functions correctly, though we have not tested it with real brass. The Buffington sight is fully functional, with all of the adjustments working, though the windage is a bit stiff.

The both barrel bands are U marked, and the butt plate tang is marked with the correct U.S. stamp. Metal finish is very good, an aged gray patina present on most of the barrel and fittings. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, Buffington sight, with standard ramrod. Lock is marked with a Federal Eagle to the left of U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, indicating that it was manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: a capital R on top; a V over a P over an eagle's head over another P on the left side just above the stock. 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 excellent opportunity to pick up a great example of a classic U.S. issue firearm, with a beautiful replaced stock. Ready to display!

Specifications:-

Year of Manufacture: 1880
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. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.