
Another issue was the copper held in leather carriers created a green film that would effectively weld the case into the breech of the carbine when fired. The rifle was originally issued with a copper cartridge case and used in the American West during the second half of the 19th century, but the soldiers soon discovered that the copper expanded excessively in the breech upon firing. This cartridge had a correspondingly reduced muzzle velocity of 1,100 feet per second (340 m/s) and a somewhat reduced effective range. A reduced-power load of 55 grains (3.6 g) of powder (Carbine Load) was manufactured for use in the carbine to lighten recoil for mounted cavalry soldiers. It had a muzzle velocity of 1,350 feet per second (410 m/s), making it a powerful and effective load for the skirmish tactics of the era. The rifle cartridge was designated as ".45-70-405", indicating a. 99 Springfield" which became the Model 1873. Firing tests were held at the Springfield Armory and Governor's Island where the average rate of fire for the Springfield was 8 rounds per minute for new recruits and 15 rounds per minute for experienced soldiers. Both single shot and magazine equipped systems were considered but, at the time, the single shot was deemed to be more reliable. The trials included tests for accuracy, dependability, rate-of-fire, and ability to withstand adverse conditions.
#1873 springfield trapdoor carbine for sale trial
Terry, conducted an examination and trial of 99 rifles from several domestic and foreign manufacturers including those from Springfield, Sharps, Peabody, Whitney, Spencer, Remington, and Winchester pursuant to the selection of a breech-loading system for rifles and carbines for the U.S. In 1872–1873 a military board, headed by Brigadier-General Alfred H. It was superseded by an improved model, the Springfield Model 1884, also in. The infantry rifle model featured a 32 5⁄ 8-inch (829 mm) barrel, while the cavalry carbine used a 22-inch (560 mm) barrel. The Model 1873 was the fifth variation of the Allin trapdoor design, and was named for its hinged breechblock, which opened like a trapdoor. The gun, in both full-length and carbine versions, was widely used in subsequent battles against Native Americans. The Springfield Model 1873 was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the United States Army (although the Springfield Model 1866 had seen limited issue to troops along the Bozeman Trail in 1867).

User dependent usually 8 to 10 rounds per minute Minor evidence of previous surface rust on some of the blued metal, and slight pitting near the left side of muzzle (probably from the soldiers holding it there).Breech-loading rifle Springfield Model 1873Ĭavalry carbine with 22 in (560 mm) barrel, The breach locks tight, and the bore is bright. Yes, if this rifle could talk it would have some stories to tell!Īs you can see the rifle is in very good shape considering its age and military use. of California and were even garrisoned at Alcatraz for some time. In 1886 they were transferred to the Dept. They were able to return home despite the loss of their commander. 10 1876 near the Aros River in Mexico, and the next day they had a skirmish against Chihuahua troops.

In the spring of 1882 Co K was sent to Arizona 1882 to settle the "Indian Uprising." They were noted as having fought bravely against Geronimo on Jan. and in June of 1880 sent to Texas to open up wagon roads and protect the route from attacks.

In the fall/winter of 1878 they were garrisoned at Fort Mead, Dakota. They were responsible for driving Lame Deer's band into the agency. The stories that this rifle could tell! In 1876 Co K was sent to Standing Rock Agency (Fort Yates, ND) and patrolled the Yellowstone, Powder, Tongue, and little Missouri rivers, as well as the Black Hills. As indicated on the tang stamp this rifle was issued to the 1st infantry Co K. For sale is a rare 1873 model Springfield Trapdoor made the last quarter of 1876 (Oct-Dec).
