Original Item: Only One available. The U.S. breech loading Springfield "trapdoor" rifle was introduced in 1873 in .45-70 caliber. Basically it was the rifle the U.S. Army used to open the West and Springfield trapdoor carbines were used by Custer's Cavalry at the massacre at The Little Big Horn. This example has the breech block marking:

In 1884 the integral Round Rod Bayonet was introduced, which could double as a cleaning rod, a development that met with very limited success. It was finally replaced in 1892 with the .30-40 caliber Krag bolt action magazine rifle.

Model 1884 rifles saw service in the Spanish American War. The regular army was issued the new Krag rifles and the guard units received the trapdoor. There are a number of stereopticon pictures that show guard units armed with 1884 rifles.

The Model 1884 round rod bayonet rifle was Springfield's third attempt at a rod bayonet system on a trapdoor rifle. They had used the triangular rod system on the Model 1880 and some Model 1882 rifles. The Model 1884 RRB rifle utilized a different, but no more reliable mechanism for retaining the rod. Because the small locking "fingers" are not clearly visible, the gun has been nicknamed "flatlatch."

Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in 45-70 government caliber. The serial number is #530230, which indicates production in approximately November 1891, per U.S. Government records. This technically makes it a model 1888 according to some sources, as the rifle has all of the gradual "updates" that were made to the original design. The stock is in very good shape, and retains a crisp original "boxed" inspection cartouche reading SWP 1891, indicating final stock inspection in the same year.

The metalwork on the rifle is still in very good shape, showing some wear and oxidation from use in service, but still retaining much of the original blued finish. There is a bit of past peppering in areas, which we have left in place to avoid disturbing the lovely patina of age. The breech block and receiver, originally case colored, still show some of the original finish on the interior surfaces. The bore is in excellent condition, showing a bright finish with crisp lands and grooves. There is just a bit of wear and a bit of haze on the bore surface, so it most likely saw at least a bit of service, but was well cared for. The cleaning rod / bayonet is functional, with a worn finish and intact threads on the end, and the locking mechanism by the muzzle is fully functional.

The stock is in very good condition, and is still FULLY proud over the lock plate, indicating that it has not been arsenal reconditioned or worn down over the years. It has a lovely finish, looking to have had a light varnish applied at some point, and it has the lovely red brown color of aged walnut, only achieved after decades. Another nice feature on this example is the butt stock tool compartment, which is covered by a rotating door on the butt plate. This was used to store the take down tool and stuck cartridge extractor, the latter of which is still present.

The right side of the butt stock is clearly stamped with a large 71 / 493 unit marking, with H / 18 on the butt stock spine. We believe this is reference to the 71st New York Infantry Regiment, who saw service during the Spanish-American War, particularly at the Battle of San Juan Hill and the Siege of Santiago. Additionally the rifle is fitted with a lovely period leather sling, which does have a stitched repair, but still looks great.

The both barrel bands are U marked, and the butt plate tang is marked with the correct U.S. stamp. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, Buffington sight, sliding ramrod bayonet. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, manufactured at the United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, in Springfield, Massachusetts. The lock is fully functional, holding at half cock and firing at full, though it is a bit sticky and the trigger has a good amount of play. The breech block opens correctly, locking closed when shut, and the cartridge extractor and ejector are present and fully functional, however we cannot guarantee they will work on actual brass. The rear sight is present and intact, with the range and windage adjustment fully functional.

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 capital A on top; 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 Buffington sight leaf is marked R to indicate that the sight graduations are for a rifle and not a carbine.

A great chance to pickup an honest lightly used example of the United States last single shot rifle with an original sling and some great unit markings. Ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1891
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.