Rare U.S. Springfield Model 1877 Trapdoor Carbine
<4>This is an auction for a seldom encountered U.S. Springfield Model 1877 Carbine having the serial number 76661. I am far from knowledgeable of these old trapdoors however Flayderman”s and other references indicate several changes from the previous model 1773. The Model 1877 Carbines were fitted with a 'short-wrist/long-comb' stock that was less likely to crack in the wrist than the previous long wrist stocks on the Model 1873 carbines. This comb measures to the correct 10 ½ inches. Another change was to having the butt trap in the stock for a three-piece steel cleaning rod. Also this carbine has the 'three-click' tumbler which was added around serial number 73,000 and the hammer with stamped knurling in an oval pattern on the spur. The lock plate has the two-line, "U.S./SPRINGFIELD", inscription with the "1873" date which was added in 1877 along with the eagle and shield motif in front of the hammer. The 'high arch' breechblock is marked "U.S./MODEL/1873" in three lines. The left side of the barrel is marked with the small "V/P/Eagle Head/P" proof and inspection markings that are typically found on carbines in the 40,000 - 60,000 serial number range but which are occasionally found on carbines in the 75,000 - 80,000 range. The “C” marked rear sight is the Model 1879 pattern with 800 yard graduations on the left side of the base and 1500 yard graduation on the right side of the leaf. The photos clearly shows the markings. This carbine shows handling wear typical on the wood of those weapons that were carried in the field. The wood is crack free with the exception of two short hairlines at the end of the fore stock, the longest being 1 ½ inches, as seen in the photos. The metal components have a large amount of the blueing remaining (not good at guessing % Blue). The only pitting I see is a small area on top of the receiver also seen in the photos. The barrel and receiver markings are clear and sharp. This is an antique and does not require a FFL or C&R license for shipping. The cost of shipping and insurance will be $44.
