Refurbished Springfield Trapdoor .45-70 Rifle – Mirror-Finish Bore

US Army Issue Weapon: Springfield Trapdoor

History

The Springfield Model 1873 (and subsequent variants), often known as the "Trapdoor Springfield," is an iconic military rifle in American history. Developed by Springfield Armory and adopted by the US Army in 1873, it was the first breech-loading rifle—specifically a "trapdoor" design—to be officially standardized by the military. The term "Trapdoor" refers to its unique loading system: the breechblock lifted upward like a trapdoor, allowing a cartridge to be loaded directly into the chamber. The rifle fired the .45-70 cartridge, a particularly powerful round for its time. The US Army selected this model as its standard-issue rifle starting in 1873. The design underwent slight modifications over the years; the unit offered here is a modified 1884 version, designed to accommodate improved ammunition. The Springfield Trapdoor 1873 saw service during the Indian Wars before being replaced by the Krag-Jørgensen repeating rifle.

Our Model

This military-issue Springfield Trapdoor rifle has been refurbished and is in impeccable condition. The metal components feature a beautiful, uniform blued finish, with minor age-related spotting. Despite the refurbishment, the markings remain intact and unaltered. Manufacturer markings—such as "U.S. Springfield," "U.S. Model 1884," and the serial number 347XXX—are correct and clearly visible. Two small holes are visible on the top of the barrel, indicating where a sighting system was once mounted. The wooden furniture is a handsome light color, varnished and free of damage.

The action is in excellent, fully functional condition, featuring easy opening and a powerful firing mechanism with a smooth trigger pull. The .45-70 caliber barrel features the classic 32 5/8-inch length, with a mirror-like bore and excellent rifling. This fine military-issue collector's piece is in a condition nearly identical to when it left the arsenal.

The firearm comes with a Saint-Étienne certificate classifying it as Category D. Sold without accessories.