Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1873
Serial Number: 58236
Year of Manufacture: 1875
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Trapdoor Single Shot
Barrel Length: 32 1/2"
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade in slotted base fixed to the front of the barrel. The blade is not original to the gun. The rear sight is a Model 1873 ladder-style sight graduated from 100-400 yards when down, 500-1,100 when up, 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 the included clearing rod. The stock cartouche is worn and illegible, but present. The stock has evenly scattered nicks, dings, bruises, scrapes and scratches. Some of these marks have damaged or removed portions of the surface wood. There are some small losses at edges, mostly along the clearing rod slot. There is a crack in front of the rear lock mounting screw. The LOP measures 13 3/8" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has mostly worn to white or gone to a patina with scattered nicks and scratches. Overall, the stock is in Good-plus 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 stubborn fouling with infrequent minor pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 10% of its metal finish. Strongest finish is in the interior of the trigger guard. Other finish is mostly in protected areas and around raised features. Most surfaces have worn to white or gone to a light patina. There are scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly 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: None.
Our Assessment: This U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Rifle, manufactured in 1875, is a classic 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 from fairly early in production, 1875, and retains some early features such as the first-pattern rear sight. The "N.J" marking on the left of the receiver indicates that after leaving Army service it saw continued use in the New Jersey National Guard. The rifle is in good condition considering its age and extended service, retaining a little original metal finish, a decent bore and strong mechanics.
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 1875 Trapdoor stands as a tangible link to America's post-Civil War military development and frontier expansion. Please see our photos and good luck!
