Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1884 Cadet
Serial Number: 565813
Year of Manufacture: 1893
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Trapdoor Single Shot
Barrel Length: 29 1/2"
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned to a slotted base fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is an M1884 Buffington sight fixed to the rear of the barrel.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one-piece smooth walnut with metal nosecap, two barrel bands, straight grip, straight comb, steel buttplate, sling swivel and stacking swivel on the front band and another swivel on the front of the trigger guard. The forend is slotted for a clearing rod, none present. The stock and buttplate dimensions are correct for a Cadet rifle. The stock has several scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches with most marks finished over. There is a repaired chip at the toe. The 1893 dated SWP and circle-P cartouches are shallow, but legible. The LOP measures 13 1/4" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has mostly worn to white with scattered light oxidation. Overall, the stock is in Very Good condition as refinished Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue and Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is scattered light erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 20% of its metal finish. Strongest finish is on the lock and rear sight assembly with a little on the receiver. Other surfaces have mostly worn to white or gone to a light patina with a little finish in well protected areas and around raised features. There are scattered tool marks on the receiver, at the sights and bands. There are some other scattered light marks. There is wear at the muzzle consistent with bayonet use. There is some scattered light surface oxidation. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a leather sling.
Our Assessment: This U.S. Springfield Model 1884 Cadet, manufactured in 1893, is a very interesting example of the iconic single-shot service rifle that armed American soldiers during the latter half of the 19th century. Chambered in .45-70 Government, the Trapdoor Springfield was the standard-issue rifle of the U.S. Army from 1873 through the 1890s, seeing service during the Indian Wars, in frontier outposts, and with volunteer units through the Spanish-American War. The Model 1873 represents one of the most important transitional designs in American military small arms, bridging the gap between muzzleloaders and modern repeaters, with its hinged breechblock "trapdoor" mechanism and robust black powder chambering.
This rifle is of interest to collectors due to its configuration as a Cadet rifle. Springfield Research Service notes that this rifle was issued by Springfield Armory to Baylor University on February 23, 1894. Late production Cadet rifles were assembled with M1888 parts, explaining the presence of sling swivels on the band and guard. As an antique firearm, this Springfield Trapdoor rifle holds tremendous appeal for collectors of U.S. military arms and enthusiasts of frontier-era weaponry. Whether for display, historical research, or careful shooting, this documented 1884 Cadet is a wonderfully interesting variant to add to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
