Springfield Armory Model 1873 Trapdoor Infantry Rifle, .45-70 Govt, 32.5 in Barrel, 1878 U.S. Antique
This Springfield Armory Model 1873 Trapdoor Infantry Rifle is a U.S.-made, Indian Wars era service arm chambered in .45-70 Govt and dated to 1878. It features the classic hinged trapdoor breechblock with right-side thumb-latch, a full-length walnut rifle stock with two barrel bands, and the correct elevation-adjustable ladder rear sight. U.S. barrel proofs "V / P / eagle head" and the socket-bayonet interface at the front-sight base underscore its military configuration and historical appeal.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The rifle is solid for its vintage. The walnut stock shows multiple blemishes and localized areas of damage. Metal surfaces exhibit widespread finish patina with scattered spots of pitting. The bore presents well for its age, with defined rifling and some visible internal blemishes.
What's Included
- Springfield Armory Model 1873 Trapdoor Infantry Rifle chambered in .45-70 Govt
- Under-barrel slotted cleaning rod (installed)
Built with a 32.5 in steel barrel and a single-shot trapdoor action, this rifle reflects the standard U.S. infantry pattern of its time. The right-side thumb-latch breechblock allows quick loading of the .45-70 Govt cartridge, and the steel buttplate with long tang is correct for the period service configuration.
Its sighting system pairs a fixed blade front with an elevation-adjustable ladder rear, designed for extended-range volley and individual fire common to the era. The socket-bayonet interface at the front-sight base is consistent with infantry use and complements the full-length stock and two-barrel-band layout.
Proofed with the "V / P / eagle head" barrel marks, this U.S.-manufactured example aligns with Indian Wars era production and service standards. The full-length walnut stock with stacking and sling hardware, along with the under-barrel slotted cleaning rod, rounds out the correct rifle furniture.
As an antique dated to 1878, this Springfield Armory Model 1873 holds clear historical significance while retaining the hallmarks collectors look for: proper sights, military stock configuration, and period-correct features throughout.