Original Item: Only One available. Here we have what is a very interesting example of a Springfield trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine, which actually started its life as a Model 1884 RIFLE! It was later modified by having the barrel cut down to carbine length and re-crowned crudely, while the stock was cut down and re-profiled the carbine style, and even had a saddle ring bar added to the left-hand side of the rifle. We do not know where or when this modification occurred or why, but it definitely would have taken a relatively high level of skill to execute properly.

The Springfield trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine was 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:

Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor converted carbine in .45-70 government caliber, retrofitted with an early Model 1873 rear ladder sight, though it is the RIFLE version, not the carbine version. It also comes with the retrofitted Saddle Ring and Bar on the left hand side of the wood stock. Looking at the stock, we believe that an unmarked arsenal spare may have been used.

The carbine bears Serial # 492277 on the rear of the receiver, which indicates production in approximately July 1890, per U.S. Government records. This is definitely a weapon that saw some level of service, based on the overall condition of the metalwork. The stock however is in great shape, and is still fully proud over the level of the lock plate, which is partly why we believe that a spare stock was used and cut down for this carbine. It shows some light wear, but no major damage such as cracks or missing chunks. The cleaning rod channel can still be seen on the front of the stock.

The bore on the carbine is in very good condition, showing a partly bright finish with clear lands and grooves. There is some past fouling and oxidation present in the grooves, but the lands are still crisp. We would probably rate this at a 7 out of 10. The breech block moves correctly, and the extractor is still present and functional along with the ejector on the floor of the breech, though we have not tested them with real brass. The saddle ring bar is still present, however there is no saddle ring present. There is no storage compartment on the butt plate, as it is definitely from a rifle.

The butt plate is marked U.S., however there is no marking on the front band. The metal finish is good, showing a worn aged polished patina in most areas, with strong case hardening present on the breech block. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and rifle M1873 ladder sight. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / SPRINGFIELD, 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: a capital W on top and a V over a P over a faint eagle's head over another P on the left side just above the stock. The left side of the M1873 sight ramp is 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 converted example of a legendary U.S. issue firearm with some great decorations and history. Ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1890
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.