Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Rifle made in 1881 with Early Ramrod & Lock - Serial 148508

Original Item: Only One available. This is a lovely used honest example of the classic Springfield trapdoor rifle, the weapon used, in its carbine form, by the troopers of the 7th Cavalry that met their fate at the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876. The breech block is marked: U.S. MODEL 1873 Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, Serial #148508 with a nice "boxed" SWP 1880 cartouche on the left side of the stock. It shows an overall good metal finish with all proofs still present. The serial number indicates production in approximately February 1881, per U.S. Government records, with stock inspection in 1880. Due to the calendar and fiscal years being different for half the year, this type of mismatch is common. The stock is in very good original condition, with lots of character and great grain. It does show denting, scratches, and some gouges, as expected on a rifle that saw real service. However, it does does not appear to have had any