![u.s. model 1873 springfield trapdoor rifle u.s. model 1873 springfield trapdoor rifle](https://s1.img.bidsquare.com/item/xl/1458/145815.jpeg)
The serial number falls between the two numbers stamped on the butt plate and represents the barrack unit and rack number.
#U.s. model 1873 springfield trapdoor rifle serial numbers#
The gun, in both full-length and carbine versions, was widely used in subsequent. According to the Springfield Research Service Serial Numbers Volume 2, 2nd Edition a large number of these 1884 trapdoor rifles, in serial numbers near yours, were given to the US Navy in 1943, however the closed serial number I found was 480883 which was transferred to the Springfield Armory Museum in 1909.
![u.s. model 1873 springfield trapdoor rifle u.s. model 1873 springfield trapdoor rifle](https://i9.skinnerinc.com/unsafe/245/1052245.jpg)
records shows this gun was probably used in the 1st Illinois volunteers or the 4th Illinois volunteers. The Springfield Model 1873 was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the United States Army (although the Springfield Model 1866 had seen limited issue to troops along the Bozeman Trail in 1867). This antique rifle still has about 95%of its original blueing. It was superseded by an improved model, the Springfield Model 1884, also in. The infantry rifle model featured a 325/8 inch (829 mm) barrel, while the cavalry carbine used a 22 inch (560 mm) barrel. The Model 1873 was the fifth variation of the Allin trapdoor design, and was named for its hinged breechblock, which opened like a trapdoor. The gun, in both full-length and carbine versions, was widely used in subsequent battles against the American Indians. This lot features the rare, vintage Springfield Model 1873 "Trapdoor" 45-70 rifle that was the first standard issue breech loading rifle adopted by the United States Army (although the Model 1866 trapdoor had seen limited issue to troops along the Bozeman Trail in 1867).