Early U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Rifle .45-70 (58975)

Serial no. 8514. Manufactured in 1874 by Springfield Armory, chambered in .45-70 Government,32 ½" round proofed barrel. The bore is very good with light frosting noted in the grooves while the rifling remains strong and well-defined. The barrel finish has thinned to a pleasing brown patina consistent with age and service. This early Model 1873 retains its correct “slotless” rear sight and high-arch breechblock marked “MODEL/1873/Eagle head/crossed Arrows/U.S.” which has aged to a smooth grey patina. The stock shows a faint cartouche on the left side with a visible script “P” proof mark, and exhibits honest handling impressions. The cleaning rod has been updated to the later 1879 pattern, a common period modification. Overall, this is a solid and attractive example of an early U.S. trapdoor service rifle from the Indian Wars era. The action is smooth, mechanically sound, and functions correctly.