Make: Springfield

Model: Model 1873/84 Trapdoor

Serial Number: 97173

Year of Manufacture: 1878

Caliber: .45-70 (Black powder)

Action Type: Trapdoor, single shot breech loading rifle.

Markings: The rear of the breech is marked “97173”. The top of the action is marked “U.S Model 1884”. The lock plate is marked with a federal eagle and “U.S. Springfield”. The left side of the barrel is marked “VP P”. The right barrel bands are marked “U”. The heel of the buttplate is marked “US.” The stock has an “SWP” cartouche, (Samuel W. Porter) and a “P” proof.

Barrel Length: 32.5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a barelycorn blade set into a barrel mounted base. The rear sight is an 1884 Buffington style rear sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood stock features a metal nose cap with a cleaning rod, a total of two barrel bands secured by springs (the front band has two sling swivels fixed to the bottom), a lock-plate, a straight wrist, a sling swivel fixed to the front of the trigger guard, a straight comb and metal semi-crescent butt-plate. There are pressure dents, scratches, scuffs, and small chips throughout the stock. There are no cracks. The LOP is 13.5” from the trigger to the rear end of the butt-plate. The butt-plate has some light impact marks. Overall, the stock is in Very Good condition as refinished.

Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color

Finish Originality: Original to Arsenal Rework

Bore Condition: The bore is very bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, this bore rates 10/10 as an Antique.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The case color is very bright with barely any wear. The bluing is bright with some light handling marks and light patina in spots along with some rust freckling. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear and pronounced. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition as an Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The rifle has a half-cock safety. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Leather sling.

Our Assessment: This U.S. Springfield M1873/84 Trapdoor rifle is a beautifully preserved example of one of the most iconic post-Civil War military rifles. Originally manufactured in 1878, this rifle began life as a Model 1873 but was later upgraded with Model 1884 features, most notably the Buffington rear sight and other minor refinements adopted during the Springfield Armory’s continuous efforts to improve performance. These transitional rifles are often referred to as Model 1873/84s, reflecting the blending of components across service updates and arsenal refurbishments. Chambered in .45-70 Government, this single-shot black powder rifle played a central role in American frontier defense, western expansion, and military use through the 1880s. This rifle is in truly exceptional condition for an antique, retaining approximately 90% of its blued and case-colored arsenal finish. The case coloring remains vibrant on the lock and breech block, while the metal surfaces show only light patina and isolated freckling. The stock, which bears the “SWP” (Samuel W. Porter) cartouche and “P” proof, has been refinished but still displays its inspector marks and remains solid with no cracks—just honest wear and a few small chips from over a century of history. The bore is a standout feature, remaining extremely bright with sharp rifling and no visible erosion, earning a rare 10/10 for a black powder rifle of this era.

With its strong mechanical integrity, clear markings, sling hardware, and included leather sling, this M1873/84 is an outstanding representative of U.S. military firearms from the Indian Wars period. It would be an excellent addition to a historical collection or as a shooter-grade black powder rifle for vintage enthusiasts. These rifles are increasingly difficult to find in this level of condition, making this example an especially desirable piece of 19th-century American military heritage.