Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1884
Serial Number: 365545
Year of Manufacture: 1887
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 was an M1884 Buffington Rifle sight fixed to the rear of the barrel. Only the base is present, the ladder arm is missing.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one-piece smooth walnut with metal nosecap, two spring-clip secured barrel bands, straight grip, straight comb, slot for a clearing rod which is not present, sling and stacking swivels on the front band, swivel in the front of the guard, and metal buttplate. The stock has no visible markings. The stock has many scattered nicks, dings, scrapes and scratches. The most notable wear is on the bottom-left behind the guard. There are a few more notable gouges and marks which have removed portions of the surface wood. There is scattered cracking and some losses at edges. The LOP measures 13 1/4" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has gone to patina with scattered surface erosion. Overall, the stock is in Fair-Good condition as refinished Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished, possibly arsenal refurbished.
Bore Condition: The bore is dark with well defined rifling. There is scattered erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 15% of its current metal finish. Strongest finish is on the receiver and breechblock. Most other surfaces have gone to a fairly uniform patina. There are scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches. There is some scattered surface erosion. 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 Good-Very Good condition as refinished 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. Please note, no clearing rod is included.
Our Assessment: This U.S. Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle, manufactured in 1887, is an 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 wear consistent with its age and service, appearing to have seen some use over its life of nearly 140 years. While missing its rear sight arm and showing some notable wear on its stock, it is nonetheless a rifle which shows some character, likely having actually gone places and been used to further American interests as the nation expanded across the continent. 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 1884 Trapdoor is a wonderful opportunity to add to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
