Item:
ON12281

Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Saddle Ring Cavalry Carbine made in 1882 - Serial 177983

Item Description

Original Item: Only One available. This is a nice service used example of the classic Springfield trapdoor Cavalry 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 good condition is this trapdoor carbine is in .45-70 government caliber, with serial # 127329 stamped on the rear of the receiver, and a clear SWP 1884 cartouche on the stock. The carbine has overall good metal finish with all proofs still present. The serial number indicates production in 1882, unfortunately just a bit too late for Little Bighorn. It has the correct two part trigger guard and standard siding sight of the model 1873, though it looks to be a replacement modified rifle rear sight.

The stock on this example is in very good condition, showing light use and wear. There are some chips, dents, and scratches, but no major structural issues. There is a crack going from the saddle ring mount to the breech, a common occurrence. The bore is in very good condition, with clear lands and grooves, and a mostly bright finish. There is however some oxidation in the grooves. The breech block extractor is present and functional, though we have not tested the ability to eject an actual spent cartridge.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and the barrel band is U marked. Metal finish worn, with some areas of original finish present, but the rest is a faded plum color. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, no sling swivels, and a standard rear ladder sight. It still has the correct saddle ring bar with an intact sliding ring to attach to the sling. 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 clear 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 capital R on top; and 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 rare example of a Springfield Trapdoor Carbine in very good condition, ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1882
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 21.5 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 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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