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 of 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 lightly used condition is this very interesting trapdoor rifle in 45-70 government caliber. The serial number is #179186, which indicates production in approximately June 1882, per U.S. Government records. However, the left side of the stock bears a "boxed" government inspector SWP / 1891 cartouche, indicating stock inspection quite a bit later. Examining the rifle, we can see that it has all of the gradual "updates" that were made to the original design by 1888, even the single piece trigger guard. This would make it a "Model 1888" according to collecting circles. It is really not clear how an earlier receiver was used when making this rifle. Was it returned to arsenal and they decided to give it a complete upgrade? Was it left over and found years later? Definitely some interesting research potential!

The metalwork on the rifle is in very good condition, with the original finish well preserved, now faded to a plum patina over much of the surface. There are a few areas of light peppering, but no major oxidation present. The bore is in excellent condition, with crisp lands and grooves, and a bright finish. The cleaning rod / bayonet is functional, with a somewhat worn finish, and intact threads on the end. The locking mechanism by the muzzle is fully functional.

The stock on this rifle is in very good service used condition, showing dents, gouges, and scratches consistent with service in the field. However it still has the lovely red-brown color of oiled aged walnut, and strong grain. There is no major damage or cracks, and the stock is still fully proud over the lock plate, so it has not been worn down or reconditioned over the years. 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. Unfortunately this compartment is empty.

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, 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 easily adjustable.

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 very faint 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 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 a very interesting example of the United States last single shot rifle in great condition. Ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1882 - updated 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.