Springfield Armory Trapdoor Model 1877 Carbine 22” .45-70 Rifle, 1880 Antiq
SOLD FOR: $1,675.00
LSB#: WY240914DR003
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1873 US Trapdoor Rifle
Serial#: 124258
Year of Manufacture: 1880, Antique
Caliber: .45-70 Govt.
Action Type: Single-Shot Forward Pivoting Breech-Block “Trapdoor” Rifle
Markings: The top of the breech block is marked, “US MODEL 1878”. The rear of the receiver is marked, “124258”. The lock plate is marked, “U.S. SPRINGFIELD” with the U.S. Eagle.
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned by the muzzle. The rear sight is a Model 1877 Second Form ladder which remains fully functional and has clear markings.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The stock is a single piece walnut with a barrel band, carbine sling ring, straight wrist with steel hand stop, straight comb, and steel buttplate with storage door. There are scratches, pressure dents, and small chips throughout. There are no cracks. The LOP is 13.25” from the trigger to the rear end of the butt-plate. Overall, the refinished stock is in Very Good condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with slightly worn rifling. There is some moderate erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 8/10 as an antique.
Overall Condition: The rifle retains about 50% of its metal finish. There is moderate to heavy thinning and patina throughout. There are scratches, nicks, and small impact marks throughout. There are refinished over blemishes. The action has moderate wear. There are small spots of rust throughout. The screw heads are mostly sharp and the markings are mostly clear with some being faint. Overall, this rifle is in Good condition for a refinished Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: Original cleaning kit.
Our Assessment: The Springfield Armory Trapdoor Model 1877 Carbine is a single-shot, breech-loading firearm that represents an evolution of the earlier Springfield “Trapdoor” designs. Chambered in the powerful .45-70 Government cartridge, it was developed to meet the needs of U.S. cavalry units during a time when the American West was still a volatile frontier. Its compact size, durability, and reliability made it a practical choice for mounted troops. The Trapdoor mechanism, a hallmark of Springfield designs, features a hinged breechblock that opens upward to allow loading and unloading of the cartridge. This system, simple and effective, was adapted from earlier muzzle-loading muskets, allowing the U.S. military to modernize its firearms without entirely retooling production lines. While single-shot operation limited its rate of fire, the reliability and ease of use of the Trapdoor action made it a favorite among troops. The Model 1877 Carbine was specifically designed for cavalry use, with a shorter 22-inch barrel compared to the infantry rifle’s 32.5-inch barrel. This reduced length improved the carbine’s maneuverability and portability, essential for mounted soldiers who required a compact yet powerful firearm. The shorter barrel also contributed to a lighter overall weight, making it easier for cavalrymen to handle during extended patrols or skirmishes. This model was used extensively during the late 19th century, including during the Indian Wars, where its ruggedness and reliability were put to the test in challenging conditions. However, its single-shot nature gradually became a disadvantage as repeating firearms gained prominence. By the 1890s, the Springfield Trapdoor series was largely phased out in favor of more advanced designs like the Krag–Jørgensen.
Today, the Springfield Armory Trapdoor Model 1877 Carbine is a sought-after piece among collectors and historians. Its historical significance, association with the American West, and the era of cavalry warfare make it an enduring symbol of U.S. military history. Its robust construction and practical design remain a testament to the ingenuity of late 19th-century firearms engineering. -R.E.
