Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The model 1873 "Trapdoor" Springfield was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the United States Army. The gun, in both full-length and carbine versions, was widely used in subsequent battles against the American Indians. It was 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 model 1873 was the fifth variation of the Allin trapdoor design, which was originally developed by Erskine S. Allin to convert Springfield model 1861 and 1863 rifled muskets into breech-loading cartridge firearms. The rifle was named for its hinged breechblock, which opened like a trapdoor. The infantry rifle model featured a 325⁄8-inch (829 mm) barrel, while the cavalry carbine used a 22-inch (560 mm) barrel. Both were chambered for the new .45-70 "Government" cartridge.
As the barrel was slightly less wide than the rifled muskets it replaced, the design of the current bayonet required alteration of the socket. Aside from this, the bayonet design was identical to the Rifled Musket version. It consists of a standard socket, which locks over the barrel and front sight, and has an attached 18 inch long triangular hollow-ground blade.
This example is really in great shape, and at some point had the finish removed and was polished for parade use. The original milling marks can be seen in some places, so it is possible that it was issued this way, but unlikely. It has a clear U-S stamp on the ricasso. The locking ring moves easily, and still has the correct securing screw.
The bayonet comes complete with its original steel scabbard, with attached belt frog. The scabbard, like the bayonet, looks to have been refinished for parade use at some point, in this case given a lovely deep blued color. It now has some rust speckling, however there are no dents, bends, or other damage. The leather frog is in good shape, with cracking and flaking in the black finish, and has a very nice brass hook attached by the U.S. rosette hinge.
A very nice U.S. Trapdoor socket bayonet, complete with original scabbard. Ready to fit to your Springfield 1873 Trapdoor Rifle!
Specifications:
Blade Length: 18"
Blade Style: Triangular
Overall length: 21“
Scabbard Length: 18 3/8"
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