Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 .45-70 Govt Single Shot Rifle, 1881 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1550.01
LSB#: 220109RB026
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1873 Trapdoor
Serial Number: 156325
Year of Manufacture: 1881
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Single Shot Trapdoor Rifle
Markings: The top of the breechblock is marked “—U.S.— / MODEL / 1873. The right side plate is marked with the Springfield Eagle and “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD”. The left side of the barrel is marked with a “V”, “P”, an Eagle head proof, and a second “P”. The top rear of the receiver is marked with the serial number, “156325”. The top of the buttplate in front of the mounting screw is marked “U S”. The left side of the stock features an inspector’s proof for Samuel W. Porter, and is dated 1881. The underside of the stock has several proof marks.
Barrel Length: 32 1/2″
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned to a rectangular base set on the barrel. The rear sight is an 1879 Buchhorn sight.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a one-piece wood with a smooth straight grip. The forend is held with two steel barrel bands. The capped forend is grooved for the included cleaning rod. There is a sling swivel at the front of the trigger guard and a sling swivel and stacking swivel on the bottom of the front barrel band. There are minor nicks, dings, compressions, and very minor draglines scattered about, all of which have been oiled over. There are scattered light nicks that are newer. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has mostly gone to a dark patina and there is light thinning on the edges. Overall, the stock rates in Very Good-plus condition, as antique.
Type of Finish: Blued with Case Color Lock Plate and Breechblock
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly dark but the rifling is well-defined. There are intermittent spots of light erosion along with light stubborn fouling throughout.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 66% of its current metal finish. It would appear the barrel and receiver have been treated with cold blue. There are minor nicks and scuffs with spots of minor surface oxidation scattered about. The breechblock has no remaining case color and it and the receiver have spots of minor surface oxidation as well. Most edges have light dings and nicks. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with strong slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Good condition, as refinished Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has quarter and half-cock safety positions. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Model 1873 “Trapdoor” Springfield was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the United States Army and was one of the main service rifles of the U.S. Military until it was gradually replaced by the Springfield Model 1892 bolt-action rifle. This rifle is a Model 1873 made about midway through production, in 1881. The history of the Trapdoor rifle is fascinating in that we’re given an usually detailed look into how Springfield Armory got from one version to the next. Good luck, and happy bidding!