Original Item: Only One available. This is a VERY early example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, with some features that were removed in the subsequent years. The most noticeable of these is the early 1st pattern "long wrist" on the stock, and the early breech block with a "high arch" on the underside. This is 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:

In the years following, the stamping on the breech block was simplified, removing the Eagle and Arrows, and the block itself lost the "high arch" underneath.

Offered in very good condition is this very early trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, with low serial 45923, overall good metal finish with most proofs still present. The serial number indicates production in approximately May-June 1875, per U.S. Government records. This was only the third year of production for this famous long rifle, which also means that it is definitely a "Pre-Custer" example, possibly seeing service in the conflicts with Native Americans. It looks to have seen long service, and at some point the original first pattern cleaning rod was replaced, and the rear sight was replaced with a long range Buffington sight with the correct lower barrel band. Otherwise, it is still in the original issued configuration! It's very rare that see see rifles with such extensive service history!

The stock is the correct early pattern "long wrist" style, which was only used on Cadet Rifles after the first few years of production. The lock plate is at the level of the stock, so it has been worn down a bit from cleaning over the years, and now has a very dark red brown color. It shows numerous dings, dents, chips, and small gouges commensurate with long service, however there is no structural damage we can see. There are also numbers and other markings stamped into the wood.

Surprisingly, the bore is in very good condition, showing clear lands and grooves with a mostly bright finish. There is some wear and past fouling in the grooves, now cleaned away, but considering the amount of use this rifle must have seen, it's definitely in great shape.

The both barrel bands are U marked, and the butt plate tang is marked with the correct U.S. stamp. Metal finish is a nice oxidized dark gray patina, with very minor peppering in places. Rack Number 49 / C has been stamped into the front receiver, with other markings stamped into the stock. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels with stacking swivel, and upgraded Buffington rear adjustable 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 a first pattern lock plate with the early markings, and it still retains the early "Two Notch" tumbler! The lock is fully functional, and the cartridge extractor is intact and functional, though we have not tested it on spent brass. The rear sight is fully functional, with both range and windage adjustable, though a bit stiff.

Additional marks of interest include inspectors' and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: a V over a P over an Eagle's head 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.

This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a VERY EARLY and interesting example of a classic U.S. issue firearm, with some great research potential. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1875
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.