Item:
ON9815

Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873/84 Rifle with Steel Pistol Grip - Serial No 360883

Item Description

Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, 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:

U.S.
MODEL
1884

Offered in very nice condition is this trapdoor rifle in 45-70 government caliber. Serial No. 360883 overall good metal finish with barrel proofs still present. Bore is in excellent condition, with a bright finish and clear lands and grooves. It also has a steel "pistol grip" installed on the rear of the trigger guard, making it easier to hold and aim. The serial number indicates that it was built at Springfield in 1887, with a government inspector SWP 1889 cartouche, indicating final inspection in 1889. Original metal finish with all proofs still present.

Given the characteristics of the rifle, we were unable to definitively label it a model 1873 or an 1884. The two were manufactured concurrently, and this one appears to be a hybrid. it has the 1884 marked breech block, serrated trigger, is dated 1883, however it was not converted a round rod bayonet like many 1884s. The trigger guard is the early 1873 style, not the solid casting used on the 1884, and it also has the standard rear sliding sight of the 1873.

The butt plate is marked "U.S." and both barrel bands are "U" marked.  Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., Buffington adjustable rear sight, two bands, two sling swivels, and standard ramrod. Lock is marked with an eagle and US SPRINGFIELD 1883, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts. Front sight is the standard front "barleycorn" blade.

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. 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 left side of the sight bed and sight leaf is marked R to indicate that the sight graduations are for a rifle and not a carbine.

Note: This gun is NOT considered obsolete calibre, so we are no able to ship to the United Kingdom. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services.

  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

    This product is available for international shipping.
  • Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon

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