1/7/22 - This is a very nice example of a Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor rifle. The Springfield Model 1873 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 Native Americans. The Model 1873 was the fifth variation of the Allin trapdoor design, and 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. It was superseded by an improved model, the Springfield Model 1884, also in .45-70 caliber. This one also comes with an original US-marked bayonet and scabbard. The left side of the barrel has the proper military proofs, and the left side of the stock has the proper military inspection stamp, although it is faint. The second "3" in the "Model 1873" has a hard strike, so it looks like it says "Model 1878". Overall, the gun is in very nice condition. The most noticeable sign of wear is the wear in the original case-hardening on the receiver. The is also some wear on the side plate and tang just behind the trigger. The stock is very nice and may have been lightly sanded. There are just a few small dings in the wood around the trigger guard and one further down. The bore is shiny with strong rifling. Comes with a leather sling. Does not come with cleaning rod.
