Original Early U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine serial 40581 – made in 1875 Original Items

Original Item: Only One available. This is a very nice and VERY early example of the classic Springfield trapdoor Saddle Ring Carbine, the weapon used by the troopers of the 7th Cavalry that met their fate at the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876. As this was originally made in 1875, there is always a small chance that it may have been there!

The breech block is marked:

MODEL
1873
(EAGLE)
(CROSSED ARROWS)
U.S.

In the years following, the stamping on the breech block was simplified, and the block itself lost the “high arch” underneath. Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, fitted with rear ladder sight. It also comes with its original Saddle Ring and Bar on the left hand side of the wood stock.

Serial #40581 indicates manufacture in 1875, while left side of the stock bears a government inspector SWP / 1889 cartouche, which would indicate that the carbine was returned to arsenal for a refit in 1889. At this time the original rear sight was replaced with a 1877 pattern carbine rear sight, and the trigger replaced with a later “serrated” trigger. It however still has the original two part trigger guard, and the stock does NOT have any holes under the butt plate for a cleaning rod, so it looks to be in the original configuration. This could be the original stock, or possibly an arsenal replacement. Definitely a carbine with an interesting history!!

The stock is in very good condition, with a great color. It is still partly proud over the lock plate, indicating that the stock has not been worn down much over the years. There are some cracks, including one running from the lock plate to the receiver, and another running back from the lock plate. It looks to have had an oil finish applied at some point.

The bore is in very good condition, with a mostly bright finish and clear lands and grooves. There is just a bit of fouling and oxidation in the grooves, and some wear on the lands, so it did see some level of use during service. The breech block moves correctly, and the extractor is still present and functional, though we have not tested it with real brass. The saddle ring bar is still present, with the correct saddle ring present. there is no butt plate storage compartment, or any signs that it ever had one.

The butt plate is marked U.S. and the front band/guard is U marked. The metalwork has been worn to a lovely faded blue patina overall. Center fire breechloader, .45 cal., single band, saddle-ring on sliding bar, and carbine M1879 rear “ramp” ladder sight. Lock is marked with an eagle and U.S. / 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 very faint 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, which are unfortunately very faint due to wear: a V over a P over an eagle’s head over another P on the left side just above the stock. The upper left corner of the sight leaf and right side of the ramp are both marked C to indicate that the sight graduations are for a carbine and not a rifle.

This is an excellent opportunity to pick up a very good EARLY example of a legendary U.S. issue firearm. Ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: 1875
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Cartridge Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 22 Inches
Overall Length: 41 Inches
Action type: Hinged Breechblock with side action lock.
Feed System: Single Shot

NOTE: This gun is NOT considered obsolete calibre, so we are not able to ship to the United Kingdom. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.