Original Item: Only One Available. The Model 1888 round rod bayonet rifles were Springfield's last attempt at producing a trapdoor rifle with a working and reliable bayonet retention mechanism. The models were produced between 1890 and 1893, when trapdoor production came to an end.
Offered in very good/excellent condition is this trapdoor rifle in 45-70 government caliber. Serial #511691 with a legible SWP 1891 cartouche, overall very good metal finish with all proofs still present. The serial number indicates that it was built at Springfield between February and April 1891.
The butt plate is marked U.S. and both barrel bands are "U" marked. The rifle features an excellent un-sanded stock with visible SWP 1891. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., two bands, two sling swivels, Buffington sight, sliding ramrod bayonet. Lock is marked with an eagle and "US SPRINGFIELD, manufactured by Springfield Armory, Springfield Massachusetts. Breechblock is marked "US Model 1884".
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 eagles 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.
These guns may be found with an assortment of front sight covers; however this one has the standard third-type blade front sight.
Model 1884 and Model 1888 rifles saw service in the Spanish American War. The regular army was issued the new Krag rifles and the guard units received the trapdoor. There are a number of stereopticon pictures that show guard units armed with a mix of 1884 and 1888 rifles.
Note: This gun is NOT considered obsolete calibre in the UK.
