Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Carbine .45-70 Gov’t 22″ Single Shot Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,600.00
LSB#: LSB250518DK001
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: Trapdoor Carbine, Model 1873
Serial Number: 129240
Year of Manufacture: 1880 (Antique)
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Single Shot Trapdoor Breechloader
Markings:
The trapdoor is marked “U.S. MODEL 1873”. The lockplate is marked with an eagle and “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD”. The chamber bears the standard “V / P / eagle head / P” proof marks. The metal buttplate is marked “U.S.”. The stock displays a series of decorative brass studs arranged in patterns suggestive of Native American origin. The forearm is adorned with carved hatchwork, and the wrist is fitted with a knurled metal semi-pistol grip cap, likely a field-added reinforcement or personalized modification.
Barrel Length: 22″
Sights / Optics:
The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable ladder-style sight graduated to 12.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
The stock is a one-piece hardwood carbine-style configuration featuring a straight comb and modified wrist. The knurled metal semi-pistol grip cap at the wrist appears to be a non-standard addition, possibly installed for reinforcement or improved grip in the field. The stock is decorated with small brass studs in circular and linear designs. The forearm exhibits crosshatched carving. There are scattered marks consistent with field handling and age, but the wood remains solid and free of structural cracks.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished. Areas of surface pitting retain bluing, a typical indicator of an older reblue.
Bore Condition:
The bore is bright with strong rifling. There is light erosion consistent with black powder use. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.
Mechanics:
The action functions correctly. The trapdoor opens, locks, and closes as intended. The hammer locks at both half- and full-cock. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Our Assessment:
This Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Carbine, serial number 129240, was manufactured in 1880, squarely within the later Indian Wars period. Though marked “Model 1873,” that designation refers to the pattern, not the year of manufacture. Springfield Armory continued using the 1873 marking through the 1880s, and records from the National Park Service confirm this carbine’s 1880 origin.
Chambered in .45-70 Gov’t and featuring a correct 22” barrel, this is a true carbine rather than a cut-down rifle. What sets this example apart is its unique personalization: decorative studwork, forearm hatch carving, and a knurled metal wrist cap, likely added in the field for function and individuality. These kinds of enhancements were often applied by frontier cavalrymen, Native American scouts, or civilian auxiliaries, reflecting the harsh conditions and personalization common in frontier service.
Mechanically sound and full of frontier character, this is far more than a standard Trapdoor—it’s a possible eyewitness to America’s western expansion. For collectors of Indian Wars arms, U.S. cavalry equipment, or Native American-modified military pieces, this carbine offers both historical authenticity and one-of-a-kind appeal. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high quality photos. Good luck on your bid. -K.F.
