U.S. Model 1878 (45/70) Trapdoor Springfield Rifle
Description:
U.S. Model 1878 (45/70) Trapdoor Springfield Rifle
Serial number 240466 Produced in the 2nd Quarter of 1884.
Rifle was purchased in 1973, from and individual who said that he got it from a relative “way back when”. And had owned it for a long time? I know for sure, that that for last 49 years I've kept it in a temperature / humidity-controlled environment. And it has only been carefully handled and lightly cleaned and oiled by me.
The fit and finish is very good. And the trap-door action is tight and smooth. The barrel shows very little ware. But there are some small minor "rough area" blemishes on the finish of the barrel, in a couple places. Overall conditions shows reasonable ware for the age. And of course. Never fired since purchase.
The wood is in very good condition. Also only showing "in-service", reasonable ware for the age. With very few “dings and scratches”. And of course. Never fired since purchase. Photos do a pretty good job of showing the condition. Let me know if you want a particular area "zommed in on"? There is some oil residue build-up present in the creases and tight surface areas. I wanted to keep it as original, as possible. So it was always lightly cleaned and oiled by me.
The Eagle is clean, non-blurred, and easy to see. The “U. S. Springfield” is legible and easy to read. In the right light. The Serial Number is also readily visible. The top of the receiver is stamped “1878”. With the “8 slightly blurred”. That in the right angle looks a little like a “3”. There is a “U” on the front Barrel Band. And the top of the Butt Plate is Marked: “U.S G 23”. Not sure what this signifies? Anyone? Could not find a proof mark on the stock.
Given how it was cared for in my possession. The entire rifle overall looks original to 1884. And what looks like the period correct Bayonet and Scabbard are included. There are initials on the back of the US. In the leather. Thinking that could have been a soldier’s? Anyway, purchase both the rifle and bayonet/scabbard, together back in 73.
There is a cranky old gunsmith that has been around for a long time. In my area, that is available to inspect the rifle. I’ve only been to his shop a couple of time in the past. But he agreed look the rifle over. And discuss condition with you over the phone. Cost? He said about $50. Approx. Or, if you know someone in the Tampa Bay Area, Florida. That you want to look it over. Just let me know. And I’ll run it over to them. I also have references from several purchases of similarly aged rifles.
Applies to all listings:
In 2002, the entire collection was professionally removed from wood and inspected for condition. Then cleaned, lubricated and reassembled. By a very experienced and professional Gunsmith. All received a clean bill of health from a condition stand point. Better than appropriate for the age. They have only been lightly cleaned and oiled by me. Before and since. The entire collection has never out of a temperature-humidity, controlled environment. Since the purchased date. Most post 1920 guns have been fired by a qualified gunsmith or range master. For reliability, functionality and safety confirmation. I have fired a few. Limited to a total of <200 rounds.
Guns that are equipped for them, have as-issued correct Bayonet and Scabbards, in very good condition. Where applicable: Most have (sure looks like) as issued: Slings, clips and / or removable magazines. And some higher Mag loads, are available. All have the expected stampings and / or cartouches. Some Government Arsenal Reconditions are included. And if so? There are photos of the clear markings of this reconditioning. Again, per individual listing. Other than Arsenal Rebuilds.
There are no replacement or OEM parts or accessories in this collection.
All firearms are offered as collector’s items only. Seller does not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any firearm. A thorough inspection. should be conducted by an experienced, reliable gunsmith / rangemaster Before even considering firing any gun.
Specific descriptions related to a Firearm. Are based on knowledge, at the time of the listing. None are intentionally misrepresented. And are described as accurately and to the best of my ability, as possible. Please make your own determinations. And please let me know if you detect an issue?
A 3rd party, totally independent gunsmith. Is available for consultation / condition confirmation. At the buyer’s expense. Or, if you have a contact in the Tampa Bay Florida area? I’ll take it to them. I am available to take phone inquiries. Between 9AM & 6 PM. Most days.
Abiding by and meeting any and all: City, state or federal regulations, regarding the purchase or owning of firearms. Or any item related to the firearm. Such as clips, magazines, bayonets or any item listed or sold with the firearm: Is the responsibility of the purchaser to meet, and/or abide by. All firearms are mechanically sound and complete, unless noted. To be clear: I am NOT warranting them as safe to fire
The Buyer must have a valid Driver’s License. And complete the Florida Individual Person: Firearm & Ammunition Transfer Disclosure Document. Not sure if it is needed? For every sale? But it only takes about 5 minutes to complete. For this sale : Because it was produced in 1884. I can ship the rifle to an dividual. But the Floridia Form Still applies. It is not filed with anyone. It is only of my auditing purposes. Just in case. All taxes, fees, insurance, customs and / or any other non-firearm specific regulations, related to the listing. Is the responsibility of the buyer or buyer’s representative, to meet.
Thank you for your understanding and agreement.
SOLD
Rifle Caliber: .45-70 Government
Manufacturer:
Springfield Armory
Model:
US Model 1878