Springfield Model 1873 Carbine .45-70 Government 22″ Trapdoor Rifle Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,050.00
LSB#: WY250329LB009
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: Model 1873 Carbine
Serial Number: 188073
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1882, Antique
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Trapdoor Lever Action, Single Shot
Markings: The right side of the breechblock is marked “MODEL 1873” with eagle.The lockplate is marked “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD”. The serial number “188073” is stamped on the top of the receiver behind the breech. The buttplate is marked “U.S.”. Additional inspection and proof marks are found on various components, consistent with original military issue.
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to a base soldered at the muzzle. The rear sight is a Model 1879 carbine-style graduated ladder sight with a sliding leaf and a stepped base for elevation adjustments.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece walnut carbine-style military stock with a straight wrist, single barrel band, saddle ring and bar on the left side, and a steel carbine buttplate. The LOP measures 13.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The wood shows scattered nicks, dents, and dings throughout from service use. There is a crack on the top of the wrist. There is no visible cartouche. The stock rates in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Originally Blued barrel and case-colored breechblock and lockplate, now showing patina
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright, the rifling is well defined. There is visible light pitting and erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This carbine retains approximately 10% of its original finish. The metal surfaces show scattered surface erosion, edge wear, brown patina, and areas of oxidation and dark spotting. There are small nicks and dings throughout the barrel and receiver. The screw heads are lightly tool-marked and serviceable. The pins are generally unmarred. The markings are legible. Overall, this carbine rates in about Good 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: None
Our Assessment: The Springfield Model 1873 was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the U.S. military, chambered in the formidable .45-70 Government cartridge. Produced at the height of the Indian Wars, the carbine version like this one was the preferred issue for cavalry units, including those in the famous 7th Cavalry under George Armstrong Custer. With its shortened barrel and saddle ring, it was designed for mounted use.
This particular carbine dates to circa 1882 and retains its military features, including the correct 22” barrel and carbine rear sight. Though worn, it offers an honest and original example of a real service weapon from the post-Civil War frontier era. Carbines from this era saw rough use and are increasingly hard to find in complete, functional form.
For collectors of U.S. military arms or students of American westward expansion, this carbine holds both historical and collectible significance. Whether as a restoration candidate, display piece, or valuable addition to a Trapdoor Springfield collection, it represents a tangible link to a pivotal chapter in American history. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck with your bids.-C.M.
