Original Item: Only One available. This is a wonderful example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, the weapon used, in its carbine form, by the troopers of the 7th Cavalry that met their fate at the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876. The breech block is marked:

Offered in very nice used condition is this trapdoor rifle in 45-70 government caliber. Serial # 120394 with a legible SWP 1879 cartouche, overall very good metal finish with all proofs still present. The serial number indicates that it was built at Springfield in 1879, and the stock is in fine original condition.

The butt plate is marked “U.S.” and both barrel bands are "U" marked. The rifle stock is somewhat worn, with the remains of a cartouche near the lower lock screw. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels, standard sliding sight, and standard ramrod. Lock is marked with an eagle and "US SPRINGFIELD”, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts.

The elegant script SWP belongs to Samuel W. Porter, who was the Master Armorer and Chief Inspector of Springfield Armory from 15 September 1879 to 18 June 1894. A stylized P in a circle under the wrist of the stock indicates that the rifle passed all of its overpressure proof testing. Additional marks of interest include inspectors’ and proof marks around the breech end of the barrel: a capital A on top; and a V over a P over an eagle’s head over another P on the left side just above the stock. The upper right corner of the Buffington sight leaf is marked R to indicate that the sight graduations are for a rifle and not a carbine.

Note: This gun is NOT considered obsolete calibre in the UK.