Springfield US Model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle 45-70 Govt 32.5″ w/ Bayonet & Frog
SOLD FOR: $1,000.00
LSB#: WY250408GF011
Make: Springfield Armory
Model: U.S. Model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle
Serial Number: 491230
Year of Manufacture: 1890
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Breech-Loading Trapdoor, Single Shot
Markings: The breech block is marked “U.S. MODEL 1884”. The lock plate is marked with the eagle and “U.S. SPRINGFIELD”. The top of the chamber is marked “V / P / [Eagle’s Head] / I / P”. The tang of the buttplate is marked “U.S.”. The belly of the stock is marked with a serifed “P” inside a circle. The left side of the stock bears a cartouche with an 1890 date. For rifles produced in 1890, the cartouche often reads “SWP / 1890,” representing Samuel W. Porter, the Master Armorer at Springfield Armory from 1879 to 1894. The top of the wrist is marked “F / 1”, and the left cheek of the buttstock is marked “84”. The serial number “491230” is located on the upper rear of the receiver.
Barrel Length: 32.5”
Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a Buffington 3rd Type adjustable sight with rack-and-pinion windage adjustment and long-range elevation ladder. The front sight is the 4th Type two-piece sight with a blade on a pinned base.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle has a one-piece walnut stock with two barrel bands, sling swivels front and rear, and a stacking swivel. There are scuffs on the buttstock and general handling marks consistent with age, but no cracks or structural defects. The cartouches remain visible, and the stock rates in Very Good condition for an issued military rifle.
Type of Finish: Blued with Case Hardened Breech Block
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with well-defined rifling. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 87% of its original metal finish. Bright blue remains on the tang and trigger guard. There is some expected thinning and mottling on exposed surfaces, with a mix of blue, brown, and black patina present. The screw heads are serviceable, and the markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Fine condition for a 19th-century military arm.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, and the trapdoor mechanism opens and locks smoothly. We have not test-fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle includes an original M1873 socket bayonet and a period-correct scabbard with leather frog. The frog is marked “U.S.” and “WTG” on the reverse. The cleaning rod is present and is the M1878 2nd Type with cupped end.
Our Assessment:
This is a superb and highly desirable example of a late-production Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor rifle, manufactured in 1890 and outfitted with all the right military features: Buffington rear sight, 4th Type front sight, M1878 cleaning rod, U.S. marked socket bayonet with frog, and clear cartouches.
The finish is remarkably well-preserved, with vivid blue still present on some components like the trigger guard, and the walnut stock retains strong, crisp cartouches and minimal wear. Small markings like the wrist “F / 1” and cheek “84” give the rifle additional character and inspection provenance.
If you’re looking for an investment piece or centerpiece for a U.S. martial arms collection, this Trapdoor stands out. It’s one of the cleaner and better-equipped examples we’ve encountered, ready for display, historical interpretation, or careful preservation. 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.
