Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1873
Serial Number: 150386
Year of Manufacture: 1881
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Trapdoor Single Shot
Barrel Length: 32 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 a 4th Form Model 1879 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 the included clearing rod. The stock has several scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. A few deeper marks have been filled. There are a few losses along the edges of the clearing rod slot. There are no cracks. The cartouche and inspection marks are worn, but legible. The LOP measures 13 3/8" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has worn to white with scattered surface 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 semi-bright with sharp rifling. There is scattered light erosion and infrequent pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 3% of its metal finish. There is a little case color visible on the interior of the breechblock, concealed when assembled. Other surfaces of the breechblock and lock have muted. The barrel has gone to a fairly uniform patina. There is scattered light surface oxidation and infrequent minor erosion. There are some scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches. 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: A black leather sling is included.
Our Assessment: This U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Rifle, manufactured in 1881, is a neat 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 has correct features and markings for its production and shows wear consistent with its age and service. The bore is in better condition than the exterior appearance might suggest and the mechanics are still strong. Included with the rifle is a period leather sling. 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 1873 Trapdoor stands as a tangible link to America's post-Civil War military development and frontier expansion. Please see our photos and good luck!
