Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1884
Serial Number: 444605
Year of Manufacture: 1889
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 with an M1883 Buffington sight cover installed. The rear sight is an M1884 Buffington 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 some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches, mostly concentrated along the belly. There are a few small but deeper marks including along the edges of the rod slot. There are no cracks. The cartouche and inspection marks are clear. The LOP measures 13 1/4" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has some wear at the heel with some scattered light marks. Overall, the stock is in Excellent condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue and Case Color
Finish Originality: Original to the parts. The breechblock is marked Model 1873, see Our Assessment.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, just a little stubborn dried grease. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The finish is generally strong throughout. The front sight cover has some edge-thinning and minor oxidation. There are a few scattered minor marks. The action shows faint operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Excellent 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: Included is a leather sling and an M1873 socket bayonet with scabbard and hanger. Please note, the bayonet cannot be installed while the front sight cover is installed.
Our Assessment: This U.S. Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle, manufactured in 1889, is a gorgeous 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 one of the highest condition examples we have seen with strong finish throughout, a great bore and strong mechanics. Produced in 1889, the breechblock is marked Model 1873. There was some overlap between the Model 1884 changes adopted in 1886 and the use of 1873 marked blocks on-hand, though we cannot find any reference of this extending past 1887. Given the overall exceptional condition and matching color between the block and receiver tang, it does not seem impossible that an 1873 marked block may have been assembled on an 1889 gun, though it should be noted. Included with the rifle is a leather sling and M1873 socket bayonet with scabbard and hanger. 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!
