Harrington & Richardson Model 1873 Trapdoor Rifle .45-70 Government
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: WY241121MJ071
Make: Harrington & Richardson (H&R), Reproduction of Springfield Armory
Model: U.S. Model 1873 Trapdoor
Serial Number: 699
Year of Manufacture: Modern production
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Break-Action, Hinged Breech-Loading
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD” with an eagle emblem below. The top of the breechblock is marked “U.S. / MODEL / 1873.” The barrel is marked “HARRINGTON & RICHARDSON, INC. / GARDNER, MASS. MADE IN U.S.A.” on the left side. The right side of the receiver is marked “H&R.” The barrel is also marked “U.S. MODEL 1873 / CAL. 45-70 GOVT.” near the rear sight. Additional proof marks and inspector stamps are present.
Barrel Length: 32 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a military-style ladder sight with elevation adjustments.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece smooth walnut stock with a straight grip, straight comb, and metal buttplate. There is a sling swivel mounted on the trigger guard and a second on the barrel band holding a leather sling. The wood shows minor handling marks, small dings, and light scratches but no major cracks or chips. The LOP is 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: N/A, single-shot rifle
Type of Finish: Blued & Case Colored
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling marks, minor thinning on high edges, and slight wear at contact points. The case coloring on the breechblock and receiver exhibits vibrant hues. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are unmarred. The markings are crisp and well-defined. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a cleaning rod and a socket bayonet and scabbard with brass belt hook
Our Assessment: This Harrington & Richardson Model 1873 Trapdoor rifle is a high-quality reproduction of the historic Springfield Armory design used by the U.S. military in the late 19th century. Chambered in .45-70 Government, this rifle offers both collectors and shooters the opportunity to own a well-made example of a classic military rifle without the age-related concerns of an original.
The original Springfield Trapdoor rifles saw extensive use in the Indian Wars, the Spanish-American War, and beyond. H&R’s reproduction maintains the traditional look and functionality while providing modern manufacturing quality. This rifle is in Excellent condition, with strong case coloring, a bright bore, and smooth mechanics.
For those interested in historical firearms, reenactments, or just enjoying a classic single-shot rifle, this H&R Model 1873 Trapdoor would be a great addition to any collection. Please review our High Quality photos and good luck with your bids!-C.M.
