This is a very rare experimental Model 1870 Springfield Trapdoor carbine. This .50-70 carbine has no serial number, but was manufactured in 1871. This rare carbine has an overall length of 41 1/2", with a barrel length of 22". The barrel exterior has moderate pitting scattered along the entire length. Originally it was blued, but there is no finish remaining on this one. The barrel and breech have a nice steel gray patina, almost like a National Armory Bright finish. The bore is dark and dirty, but still shows good rifling. A good cleaning will probably do wonders for the bore. An inspectors stamp of S is stamped into the barrel just behind the rear sight. The breech is equipped with a first issue "high arch" breech block assembly inscribed 1870/Eagle Head/Crossed Arrows/U.S. The lock plate sits flush with the stock, is not beveled and is marked U.S./Springfield/ with an Eagle to the left of Springfield. There is no date stamped to the rear of the hammer. This is the only metal part on the gun that still has some bluing left. It has a first type, coarse knurled hammer and a three position tumbler. The rear sight is a Model 1866 variant and may be a replacement. The front sight is original to the gun. The trigger guard has not been provisioned for a sling swivel. The trigger has a smooth surface. The iron butt plate is stamped US and does not have a trap door. The saddle bar is still attached to the stock, and the ring is still reporting for duty. The barrel band is iron and is stamped with the small u. The stock is solid and has not been sanded or refinished. It does have a cheek relief carved into the left side comb though. The ESA and proof P cartouches are no longer visible. There are no major cracks or wood loss anywhere on the stock. It has not been drilled to accept gun tools. The wood has taken on a nice dark brown appearance. There are plenty of bumps and dings from handling during service, but this gun has not been abused. This is an overall good example of an extremely rare experimental 1870 Trapdoor rifle. They only made 341 of these, so they're pretty collectible in any condition.

Item # AA3465