Original Item: Only One available. This is an interesting 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:

U.S.
MODEL
1873

Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, with Serial #313989 stamped on the rear of the receiver, which indicates production in approximately March 1886, per U.S. Government records. This is a bit late for a model 1873, as the Model 1884 was already well into production. There are no cartouches we can find on the stock, as it looks to have been completely refinished. It was apparently put into model 1873 configuration, with a Model 1877 rear sight, though the serrated trigger was left in place. This was often done before these were sent to state militia units.

The rifle shows an overall worn metal finish, with all the metal proofs still present. The stock is in very good condition, and is not fully 'proud' over the level of the lock plate, so it was likely refinished or cleaned excessively when it was serviced at arsenal. It shows the lovely bright red-brown color of aged and oiled walnut, and the expected dents and dings from long service. It was however completely split through the wrist at some point, and then glued back together with dowels in the typical arsenal fashion. This was probably done during the early 20th century before dispersal to state militias.

The bore is in good condition, with a somewhat bright finish and still-visible lands and grooves. There are a few large spots of oxidation and some wear overall, but nothing major, and we would rate this a 5-6 out of 10. The ejector is present, and functions correctly, though we have not tested it with real brass. The model 1877 rear sight works well, though it is a bit stiff at present, and has a good amount of surface oxidation.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and both barrel bands are U marked. The metal finish is just lovely, showing an aged mottled patina, with no signs of having been refinished over the years. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, standard model 1877 sliding sight, and standard ramrod. Lock is marked with a Federal Eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, indicating that it was manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts. The cleaning rod shows light wear, and still retains the ribbed cleaning jag on the narrow end.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: 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 great opportunity to pick up a very nice example of a classic U.S. issue firearm, in very nice honest used condition. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1886
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.