For your consideration is a Springfield Model 1873 trapdoor rifle. This rifle was manufactured in 1884. The Springfield Model 1873 was the Army’s standard issue rifle during the Indian Wars of the 1870s and 1880s. The rifle also saw service in the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. Today, it is a favorite weapon of gun collectors. The origins of the M1873 Springfield date back to the waning days of the Civil War. Erskine S. Allin, the master armorer at the Springfield Armory in Massachusetts, was tasked with converting the Army’s muzzle-loading rifles into breech loaders. This resulted in the development of the Model 1865 Springfield know as 'Allin's Alteration" and later the "Needle Gun" for its long firing pin. This rifle utilizes a 32 5/8" round barrel and straight grain walnut stock. The firearm is chambered in the powerful .45-70 caliber. This rifle got its nickname from its breech-loading mechanism, which resembled a trapdoor. To load a round, a soldier had to open the latch and manually insert a single cartridge. The M1873 performed well in combat, and cavalryman described it as a weapon that “would shoot and kick hard, carrying up to 500 yards very well.” While it was an effective weapon, the M1873 had a powerful recoil, and many soldiers who used it would claim that the rifle could knock down two men with each shot—the man it hit and the man who fired it. This Model 1873 has developed a rich patina over the years. All the correct markings are present and visible. This rifle comes with a bayonet as well. Serial Number: 26925. This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check. For a complete representation of condition and for additional images please call 800-686-4216. It is the buyer’s responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.