Item:
ONSV21SOS204

Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Rifle made in 1882 with Standard Ramrod - Serial No 185432

Item Description

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 is marked:

U.S.
MODEL
1873

Offered in very nice condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, Serial # 185432 with a faint SWP 1882 cartouche, overall very good metal finish with all proofs still present. The serial number indicates production in 1882, with stock inspection in the same year. The stock is in very good original condition, with lots of character. 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 is still partly proud over the lock plate, with some level areas, so it has not been worn down or reconditioned much. The trigger is still the correct smooth type, which would usually be replaced with a serrated example if it had seen any arsenal repairs over the years.

The bore is in good condition, with a bright finish, and clear lands and grooves. There are a few areas of wear and past oxidation in the grooves, but they are minor. The ejector is present, and functions correctly, though we have not tested it with real brass. The sight works well, and has all the internal springs present as far as we can see.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and both barrel bands are U marked. Metal finish is a slightly worn plum patina, with peppering in places, as shown. Also at some point black paint was used on the butt plate and other fittings, which has now been mostly removed. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, standard sliding sight, and standard ramrod. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts.

The elegant script SWP belongs to Samuel W. Porter, who was the Master Armorer and Chief Inspector of Springfield Armory from 15 September 1879 to 18 June 1894. The faint stylized P in a circle under the wrist of the stock indicates that the rifle passed all of its overpressure proof testing. Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: a V over a P over an eagle's head over another P on the left side just above the stock, and a small R over the chamber. 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. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1882
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 no able to ship to the United Kingdom. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services.

  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

    This product is available for international shipping.
  • Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Cash For Collectibles