Springfield Armory 1873 Trapdoor .45-70

[dakotaranger]

I found a Springfield Armory 1873 Trapdoor .45-70 for sale.  I was wondering what markings I should look for to see if it's legit?  How would I find out about some of the history if it is?

[St. George]

If it's a 'rifle' - it's likely un-screwed with, since that's the province of the carbine.

Waite and Ernst wrote 'The Trapdoor Springfield' that covers 'all' of the inspector's marks and stock dates, as well as a decent serial number system that'll tell you when the piece was built.

The Trapdoor stayed in Service a long time - getting repaired and re-fitted with new rear sights when needed.

There are a 'lot' of good Trapdoors 'out there', since it was widely sold by the nascent DCM and even the larger hardware stores.

If you find out the markings and serial number - it'd be helpful.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[dakotaranger]

Thanks I appriciate it...I just wish I wasn't poor

[St. George]

Trapdoors became really popular when Dixie Gun Works were quietly buying them up a number of years ago.

Owners found that one of the biggest dealers in antique arms in the country were doing this, and prices rose exponentially.

All that said - Trapdoors abound, since they were sold and sold and sold - sometimes with ammunition to sweeten the deal.

Once the ammuntion was expended - interest waned and they were often relegated to a closet.

My point is that there are still guns to be found and 'good' bargains to be had if you know what you're looking at, and not relying on the local gun shop 'expert'.

Go to your Public Library and see if they'll order you a copy of 'The Trapdoor Springfield' - by Waite and Ernst, via an Inter-Library Loan.

You may have to pay postage from one Library to the other - plus return - but I've never had it reach a $5 bill.

The beauty of military weapons and equipment is that Uncle Sam never made just one, so read, keep your eyes open, and put some feelers out - you may be well-rewarded.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!