Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Rifle made in 1886 with Early Pattern Ramrod - Serial 308040

Original Item: Only One available. This is an interesting honest used 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.MODEL1873 Offered in very good condition is this trapdoor rifle in .45-70 government caliber, with Serial #308040 stamped on the rear of the receiver, which indicates production in approximately January 1886, per U.S. Government records. This is a bit late for a model 1873, as the Model 1884 was already well into production, which may indicate it was serviced at arsenal before being dispersed to state militia units. It is also possible that it was simply made with left over parts, but we suspect the former explanation is more correct. The improved Buffington rear sight was removed, replaced with a Model 1879 rear sight. It was also fitted with a Model 1873 breech block, which was identical to the Model