Original Item: Only One available. This is a very interesting example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, which was shortened by about 7 inches during service to a nice "Artillery Carbine" length. We have seen a few of these previously, and we're not sure if this was an official pattern from Springfield, or one used at state and local arsenals.

This was 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 #243476 stamped on the rear of the receiver, which indicates production in approximately May 1884, per U.S. Government records. The stock is in very good original condition, with lots of character and a great dark red-brown color showing lovely grain. It is however below the level of the lock plate and other fittings, so it definitely was reconditioned at arsenal when it was shortened. This unfortunately has removed all of the original stock cartouches that would have been present.

The bore is in excellent condition, with a bright finish and crisp lands and grooves. It looks to have seen only light use, and was properly cleaned after the last time it was used. We can see just a bit of past fouling in the grooves. The breech block moves correctly, and the extractor is still present and functional along with the ejector, though we have not tested it with real brass. The model 1879 rear sight works well, and has all the internal springs present as far as we can see, though it is a bit stiff at present.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and both barrel bands are U marked. The metal finish is just lovely, with the original blued finish faded to plum overall, with no signs of major past oxidation on the exterior. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, standard model 1879 sliding sight, and standard ramrod (cut down). 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.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: an R over the chamber, and 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 standard M1879 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 excellent opportunity to pick up a very interesting example of a classic U.S. issue firearm. Ready to research and display!

Specifications:-

Year of Manufacture: 1884
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 25 1/2 Inches
Overall Length: 45 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.