Item:
ONSV23FMF84

Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine serial 189234* - made in 1882

Item Description

Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice example of the classic Springfield trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine, the weapon used 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, complete with its original Saddle Ring and Bar on the left hand side of the wood stock. The serial number is 189234*, and there is a faintly legible SWP 1882 cartouche on the left side of the wrist. The serial number indicates production in 1882, with stock inspection in the same year. The "Star" after the serial number has been a cause of debate for years, but it is generally accepted to mean that it was "made with a combination of new and salvaged parts, to be held in reserve, or issued to and/or used by groups like the National Guard." (Please See the website trapdoorcollector.com for more information).

There is unfortunately no way to tell whether this rifle was returned to arsenal after production, or whether it was originally produced using the "salvaged" parts. However, considering that it still is completely in the M1879 configuration, we believe it was originally made with the early 1873 dated lock plate and possibly other salvaged parts. It shows no signs of having had any further updates.

The carbine has an overall very good metal finish, with most proofs still present. The stock is in very good condition, with a lovely color. It does show some wear, but does not appear to have been refurbished at any time. The stock is still proud over the lock plate towards the front, so there is definitely minimal wood missing.

The bore is in very good condition, with a mostly bright finish and clear lands and grooves. There is just a bit of wear, and signs of past light oxidation and fouling overall. It did see service, but was definitely well cared for. The breech block moves correctly, and the extractor is still present and functional, though we have not tested it with real brass. The saddle ring bar is still present, with the correct saddle ring present. It has the correct butt stock storage compartment for the cleaning rod, though it is unfortunately empty.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and the front band is U marked. The metalwork has been worn to a lovely faded blue patina overall, with a mottled patina on the breech block, which was originally case hardened. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and fully functional carbine M1879 rear ladder sight. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD / 1873, manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts. This is the early pattern lock plate, often seen on "star" serial number examples, but it has the correct later 3 notch tumbler.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel, which are still clear: 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 M1879 standard sliding sight leaf and the left side of the ramp are marked C to indicate that the sight graduations are for a rifle and not a carbine.

This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a very good example of a legendary U.S. issue firearm. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1882
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 22 Inches
Overall Length: 41 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.

  • 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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