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Item:
ON10750

Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Rifle Shortened for Sporting made in 1885 - Serial No 271463

Item Description

Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, which was modified after service for use as a sporting rifle. The barrel was reduced in length, and the stock was cut down to 3 inches above the lower barrel band. The buttstock was also altered in shape to be thinner. The original sights were removed, and replaced with the rear sight for a Springfield Model 1898 Krag–Jørgensen rifle. A tall front sight was added to work with the rear sight. The rifle also includes a leather sling / butt pad for more stable sport shooting.

The Springfield Trapdoor is 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 good condition is this trapdoor shortened rifle in .45-70 government caliber, Serial # 271463with a faint SWP 1884 cartouche, with overall good metal finish with all proofs still present. The serial number indicates production in 1885, and the stock is in good condition, having been refinished when the rifle was turned into a sporting gun. 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 or damage. The stock has been sanded down at bit, as the stock is only slightly proud over the lock plate in areas. 

The bore is in very good condition, with a bright finish and crisp lands and grooves, and some light oxidation in places. Probably a 8 out of 10. The butt plate is marked U.S. and the barrel band is U marked. Metal finish is a nice lightly worn gray color, with a bit of peppering in places, while the barrel has been refinished on the front. 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. A 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. 

This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a very interesting sporting conversion of a Springfield Trapdoor. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1885
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 22 1/4 Inches
Overall Length: 41 3/4 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

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