1873 Springfield Trapdoor
Do you have to shoot black powder in this rifle or can you shoot regular 45-70 rounds in it? I guess just some general info on the rifle would help.
0
-
Hey Guys,
I just won a springfield trapdoor rifle (I am getting in the old military guns kick) in a local auction house. I would like to know a little bit about this old man. It's 1873 and has a serial # of 264xxx. Is it a 45-70?
Not in pristine condition but going to see what I can do to clean it up. It is sporterized. I don't know if that was original or not. Just looking for a little info.
Thanks.0 -
Yes, it is a .45-70 caliber, manufactured in 1884. As that was a transition year to the Model 1884, the breechblock may or may not have been replaced. Any other information would require clear pictures. 0 -
Sorry it's an 1878 model. I will try to post pics later. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by chickenhawk8
Sorry it's an 1878 model. I will try to post pics later.
No, you were right the first time. There is no Model 1878. The "3" in the Model 1873 is very tightly curled, resembing an "8".0 -
Yes...your right...after doing a bit more research I found that out. Here are some pics 
Sorry if I posted the pics to big...new at this.0 -
It looks like a decent Springfield Trapdoor. The stock has been cut down but otherwise looks complete. I can't see the muzzle but I assume the barrel is still full length.
I would clean that rust up with some extra fine steel wool soaked in gun oil.
By the way: If you want to remove the lock in order to lubricate it, do NOT pull it out from the front as you could easily chip the wood. Unscrew the lock screws until they're almost out. Put the hammer at the first click. Carefully tap each screw gently, alternately & equally with a wooden or plastic screwdriver handle or wooden mallet and the lock will ease out. Once it does, remove the screws completely. You can then remove the trigger assembly using the two screws in the trigger guard.0 -
Thanks...That helps. Yes the barrel is full length w/ the bead at the end of it. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by chickenhawk8
Thanks...That helps. Yes the barrel is full length w/ the bead at the end of it.
A bead? That means the front sight has been replaced and maybe the barrel has been cut. Is it rifled or smoothbore? It may have been made into a shotgun. The barrel should measure 32 5/8" from muzzle to the front of the breechblock and it should have a front sight like this:0 -
Yes...sorry the front site does look lit that. Will measure the barrel tonight and see if the measurements match. Thanks. Will check bore as well. 0 -
quote:Originally posted by chickenhawk8
Yes...sorry the front site does look lit that. Will measure the barrel tonight and see if the measurements match. Thanks. Will check bore as well.
If your barrel hasn't been cut and has good rifling, it may be worth restoring if you don't have too much into it. You would need a stock with band springs, front barrel band with sling swivel, nose cap with screw and a cleaning rod.0 -
Yes sir....32 and 5/8". I am going to clean it this weekend and check the rifling then. I got it for $400 so I am looking to restore it. I already have the M1 garand and 1903...so this will add to the collection. Thanks for the input. If you have anything else to add to help me out that would be great. But once again thanks. 0 -
It will probably cost you about the same amount for the parts but you'll have a nice rifle if the rifling is good. However, they are out there. The hardest part will be the stock.
Good luck to you!
FYI: This thread will be locked due to the 10-reply limit. You can always start a new thread if necessary.0
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Comments
12 comments