Original U.S. Springfield Trapdoor Model 1873 Rifle made in 1883 with Standard Ramrod - Serial No. 208779*

Original Item: Only One available. This is a great 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 # 208779* with a nice "boxed" SWP 1882 cartouche, overall good metal finish with all proofs still present. The serial number indicates production in approximately May 1883, per U.S. Government records, with stock inspection in 1882. Due to the calendar and fiscal years being different for half the year, this type of mismatch is common. The "Star" after the serial number has been a cause of debate for years, but it is generally accepted to mean that it was "made with a combination of new and salvaged parts, to be held in reserve, or issued to and/or used by groups like the National Guard." (Please See the website trapdo