 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
NICE ALL-ORIGINAL MODEL 1873 SPRINGFIELD TRAPDOOR 45-70 RIFLE, INDIAN WARS PERIOD, MADE 1883
Guns International #: 100867515 Seller's Inventory #:
Category: Antique Rifles - Cartridge - Springfield Rifles - Trapdoor
Seller's Information
When emailing or calling sellers direct, please mention that you saw their listing on GunsInternational.com
Seller: victorio1sw
Member Since: 8/4/13
State: Texas
Country: United States
Fax:
Number of Active Listings: 4
Seller: Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.
Payment Types Accepted: Bank Cashier’s Checks and Postal Money Orders.
Description:
********SOLD********
Description:
Serial number 225620 was manufactured at the Springfield arsenal in early 1883. The bore in this rifle is Excellent, Bright and Shiny, almost as new! The bore consists of three wide lands and grooves, one turn in 22 inches. Rated on a scale of 1 to 10, this one would be a 9.8 bore condition, with only occasional tiny spots that are not as shiny. I have scrubbed the bore completely clean with Colt 45 scrub pad slivers, as spiral-wrapped around a 45 caliber brass bristle brush. Bore grease was applied afterward, to preserve this extremely nice bore.
The 32-5/8” barrel is stamped “V / P / (Eaglehead) / P” near the juncture with the trapdoor receiver. The inspector’s “U” stamp also appears on top of the barrel in this same area. The same “U” stamp is found on both barrel bands. The barrel bands are equipped with original sling and stacking swivels. The correct type steel ramrod is present, still very straight, with a cleaning patch slot near the front end, and 3” of cannelures on the other end (for a better grip).
The barrel is a smooth dark gray, with traces of original blue just above the wood line. The barrel has absolutely no signs of damage, dents, or dings. There are some occasional spots of light rust just above the wood line that will easily clean off, if desired.
The lock and trapdoor assemblies also function as if new. The safety and half cock notches on the tumbler retain their original configuration, and the hammer will not drop if trigger is pulled while in these positions. The trigger is the proper grooved type. The hammer has the expected stamped knurling type for this period of manufacture. The lockplate is properly stamped “U.S. / Springfield”, and top of the high arch trapdoor is stamped “U. S. / Model / 1873”. When trapdoor is opened, the case ejector snaps loudly, and will definitely pop a spent case backward after firing.
This rifle is equipped with the original ladder rear sight, actually a rare short-lived variety seldom seen on these. The left side of the rear sight ramp is graduated “1” to “5” (100 yards). The ladder is graduated “6” to “12” (100 yards). The buckhorn slider sight, as mounted on the ladder, is graduated for minor windage adjustments. When moved laterally, spring tension keeps it in place. With the ladder laid down, the buckhorn rear sight was likely set for 100 yards. The front sight is the original post type, with the thin steel blade insert riveted in place. The sight blade remains in its original profile, never altered with a file.
The buttplate is deeply stamped “US” on the top tang. The buttplate is proper with no rod compartment, and is generally smooth with no pitting.
There is no trace of any cartouche on the left side of the stock, or the normally deeply-stamped circle “P” behind the trigger guard. Perhaps this rifle was an overrun of production, or somehow was bypassed for the application of cartouche and circle P. The trigger guard retains about 30% bright blue. The wood shows no evidence of sanding, and is either proud to the adjacent metal surfaces, or even with them. The wood shows the expected random dings from handling over the years, and is otherwise with smooth surfaces.
The Springfield Research Service data lists several rifles in the 224000 to 226000 range that were “donated to US Navy in 1943” (perhaps found in the Philippines, left after the 1898 war?). Number 226693 was in Co. E 5th Infantry in 1887. Number 225609 and 225664 were in Co. I 1st NC Volunteer Infantry in 1898.
Overall this is a decent original 45-70 trapdoor rifle that saw frontier use without the extreme abuse and neglect as seen on most of these.
Terms:
No International sales. Not being sold as a shooter, but as a collector’s Springfield rifle. If you want to shoot any older gun, first take it to a competent gunsmith and have it checked out.
Three day inspection period, but please ask questions prior to buying (see additional notes on returns at bottom). I have additional pictures that can be sent on request.
I accept Bank Cashier’s Checks and Postal Money Orders. No personal checks or Western Union MO’s. Payment must be received within seven days after sale date, and sent by Priority Mail with Tracking Number provided by buyer. Shipping by USPS Priority Mail 3 day (6” x 11” x 60” box) with insurance $70.00 (and tracking number provided to buyer). Usually shipping occurs within 3 days after payment received.
Three (3) day Inspection and Return Policy: Only if returned Exactly as Received - Not Disassembled for Inspection, Not Tampered, Not Broken/Chipped/Scratched/Dented/Scuffed, or any Parts Switched. Any Original Documentation sent Must Be Returned with item.
SOLD
Antique: Yes