Make: Springfield Armory

Model: 1875 Officer’s Model Trapdoor Rifle, Third Model

Serial Number: None

Year of Manufacture: 1875

Caliber: .45-70 Government, Black Powder

Action Type: Pivoting Breech-Block Single Shot Rifle

Markings:  The Lock plate is marked “US Springfield”. The breech of the door is marked “US Model 1878”. The Tang of the buttplate is marked “US”. The chamber is marked with “VP Eagles Head P” The left side of the stock barred an Inspector’s Cartouche “SWP/1885” (Samuel W. Porter)  and accompanying it is what appears to be a “Holy Handgrenade” a Circle with a cross connected. It is reminiscent of “The Sovereign’s Orb”. It’s a very unique acceptance stamp.

Barrel Length: 26”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a folding Beech-style combination sight dovetailed directly to the barrel, presenting either a blade or a beaded post inside a protective ring. The rear sight is a Springfield Model 1879 rifle sight graduated for elevation to 1,200 yards, mounted on an engraved sight base. Inletted into the wrist is a folding tang peep sight adjustable for both windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is finely checkered walnut with a straight comb and steel carbine-style buttplate. The forend has an engraved German silver nosecap, and the wrist features deep hand-cut checkering with tight, sharp diamonds. The left side of the stock bears a crisp, boxed “SWP” cartouche with a “1885” date stamp and a small Sovereign’s Orb (Holy Hand Grenade). There are minor handling marks scattered about the stock, including some light scuffs and small nicks, most notably below the lock and near the buttplate tang. The edges remain well-defined and the wood has a rich, dark tone. There is no evidence of sanding or refinishing. The stock rates in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Armory Blue with Bright Polished Engraved Components

Finish Originality: Original 

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains approximately 75% of its original finish, with areas of patina and age-related toning on the barrel, receiver, and breechblock. The floral scroll engraving remains crisp on the lockplate, hammer, trigger guard, tang, and buttplate. There are some small patches of minor oxidation, but the metal surfaces remain smooth with no pitting. The screws show mild tool marks but remain fully serviceable. The markings, including “U.S. SPRINGFIELD” on the lock and “U.S. MODEL 1875” on the tang, are clear and well-preserved. The rifle rates in about Fine condition for its age.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The breechblock locks up tightly, the extractor operates as intended, and the trigger has a crisp break. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle includes a period cleaning rod with a knurled brass head.

Our Assessment: This is an exceptional example of the U.S. Model 1875 Officer’s Model Trapdoor Rifle, an elite Springfield Armory product intended solely for private purchase by U.S. Army officers. As documented in John P. Haynes’ classification, this Third Model rifle belongs to Group 7, one of the smallest and most distinct production batches, with only around 100 examples produced. Its defining features—including the engraved German silver nosecap, floral scroll embellishment on every major component- confirm its originality and scarcity.

This rifle showcases the highest degree of craftsmanship Springfield Armory ever directed toward the trapdoor platform. The factory engraving is deep and elegant, and the deluxe walnut stock with its crisp checkering is a testament to its elite status. The combination of both the Beech front sight and folding tang peep sight speaks to its intended precision role, while the lack of serial number is consistent with known Officer’s Model examples. It is completely unmolested, retaining its original configuration throughout.

Whether for the advanced collector of U.S. military long arms or the museum curator seeking a centerpiece for Indian Wars-era displays, this rifle offers a rare chance to acquire one of Springfield’s finest works. Authentic, ornate, and historically significant, this is among the most desirable .45-70 Government rifles ever made.