SOLD - Scarce Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine (021924-16 - 182681)

Description

4/17/24 - This is a scarce and desirable Springfield 1873 Trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine. Serial number 182681 dates this to 1882. "Spread Eagle" and "U.S. Springfield" markings on lockplate are crisp. Cartouche on the stock is visible but faint, due to stock being lightly sanded. The rifle is in very good overall condition given its age and has retained most of its original finish, with beautiful case hardening still visible on the receiver. However, there is oxidation and patina present throughout the metal parts. Wood stock has been lightly sanded, but is in excellent condition, with no major cracks, chips, or signs of damage, just a few handling marks here and there. Bore has strong rifling, but is pitted throughout. Includes the original 4 piece cleaning rod, located inside the buttplate, and a .45-70 shell extractor tool.  The Springfield Model 1873 was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the United States Army. The gun, in both full-length and carbine versions, was widely used in subsequent battles against Native Americans. The Model 1873 was the fifth variation of the Allin trapdoor design, and was named for its hinged breechblock, which opened like a trapdoor. The infantry rifle model featured a 325⁄8-inch (829 mm) barrel, while the cavalry carbine used a 22-inch (560 mm) barrel. It was superseded by an improved model, the Springfield Model 1884, also in .45-70 caliber.