Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Carbine .45-70 GOVT 22″ Barrel Antique LSB#
SOLD FOR: $1,191.55
LSB#: WY250429MN001
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: Model 1873 Trapdoor Carbine
Serial Number: 187222
Year of Manufacture: 1882 (Antique)
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Breech-Loading Trapdoor, Single Shot
Barrel Length: 22”
Markings:
The left side plate is marked “U.S. SPRINGFIELD”. The breech block (top of the trapdoor) is marked “U.S. MODEL 1873”. The left side of the barrel, just behind the rear sight, is stamped with the eagle’s head over “V / P” proof and inspection marks. The serial number “187222” is located behind the breech on the tang.
Sights / Optics:
The front sight is a blade fixed to a squared base at the muzzle. The rear sight is a folding leaf sight with a sliding elevator, graduated for carbine use.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
The carbine features a single barrel band and a walnut stock with a straight grip, carbine-style buttplate with storage trap, and a saddle bar with ring on the left side. There are scattered scratches, compressions, and small dings throughout the wood consistent with age and use. There is no visible cartouche on the left wrist. The LOP measures 13″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Good condition for an issued antique military carbine.
Type of Finish: Originally Blued, now worn to patina
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with semi-defined rifling. There is some scattered erosion and light stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition:
This carbine retains little of its original finish. The receiver and lockplate have a mottled gray and brown speckled patina, while the barrel and exposed metal surfaces have turned a more uniform brown patina. There are scattered areas of erosion and light pitting, particularly around the breech and muzzle. The markings remain legible. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool-marked. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition for an antique carbine.
Mechanics:
The action functions correctly. The trapdoor locks securely, and the hammer has a strong mainspring. The extractor functions as intended. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Our Assessment:
The Springfield Model 1873 “Trapdoor” Carbine is one of the most iconic arms of the Indian Wars era, issued in limited numbers to cavalry units across the Western frontier. This example, with its short 22-inch barrel, single barrel band, and saddle ring, is consistent with early carbine issue configuration and retains authentic military features including the “U.S. MODEL 1873” breech block and Springfield lockplate.
According to National Park Service serial number records, this carbine—serial number 187222—was produced in the third quarter of 1882. This places it well within the mature period of Trapdoor carbine production, after many early design revisions had been finalized and just prior to the adoption of the later 1884 and 1888 iterations. As such, it represents the most refined form of the Model 1873 cavalry carbine still marked with the original model designation.
Collectors of Indian Wars-era weaponry, Springfield Armory production, or American military long arms will appreciate the authenticity and honest frontier character of this original Trapdoor Carbine. It would make a strong addition to any antique U.S. military arms collection or display. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
