Original US Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor breechblock, Rifle chambered in Cal .45-70 Cartridge Dated 1882 for Sale
SKU: 752
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-Stock
Class: Antigue
Manufacturer: Springfield
Date Manufactured: 1882
Model: 1873
Serial Number: 214263
Ignition: Percussion
Action: Percussion cap
Loading: Breechblock
Capacity: Black-powder
Barrel Length: 32.5-inch
Total Length: 56"
Sights: Fixed or leaf sights, calibrated for shorter ranges
Weight:
Stock: Walnut
Effective Range: Approximately 800 yards for aimed shots
Bore Condition: 10
Condition: 97%/Excellent
Price: $1795.00
Seller Type: Antique/Classification: C&R / FFL
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: 800
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an excellent example of the classic U.S. Springfield Model 1873 “Trapdoor” Rifle, chambered in the powerful .45-70 Government cartridge and manufactured in 1882. The Model 1873 was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the U.S. Army after the Civil War and remained one of the most recognizable American military arms of the late 19th century.
Developed at Springfield Armory, the Trapdoor system used a hinged breechblock that opened upward, allowing the soldier to load a single metallic cartridge from the top of the receiver. This design allowed the U.S. military to transition from muzzle-loading arms to modern cartridge rifles while retaining a strong, simple, and reliable action.
The .45-70 Government cartridge, officially adopted in 1873, became famous for its heavy-hitting performance and long-range capability. Springfield Trapdoor rifles saw service throughout the Indian Wars, on the American frontier, and with regular Army and militia units into the 1890s.
This 1882-manufactured Model 1873 rifle is in excellent condition, showing strong overall presentation with well-preserved metal, attractive wood, and crisp period character. The breechblock and receiver display the classic Springfield Trapdoor configuration, with the rifle retaining its historic military profile. Mechanically, the rifle appears excellent, with a solid action and strong collector appeal.
A fine and desirable example of an original U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Rifle in .45-70 Government, representing one of the most important American military rifles of the post-Civil War frontier era.
Highlights:
- Original U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Rifle
- Manufactured in 1882
- Chambered in .45-70 Government
- Correct hinged Trapdoor breechblock action
- Standard U.S. military long rifle configuration
- Excellent condition with strong markings and finish
- Mechanically excellent
- Historic Indian Wars-era U.S. rifle
- Highly desirable collector’s example
