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Rare U.S. Springfield Model 1886 Experimental Cavalry Trapdoor Carbine

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,100.00 USD Estimated At:2,750.00 - 4,250.00 USD
Rare U.S. Springfield Model 1886 Experimental Cavalry Trapdoor Carbine
This is an example of a scarce, one of the 1000 experimental Model 1886 Carbines manufactured by Springfield Armory for cavalry troop trials. These carbines feature a longer, 24-inch, barrel and full length walnut stock, and are generally found in the 325000 to 400000 range. The stock is fitted with a sling swivel near the butt, a curved swivel mounted on the front barrel band, which was designed to fit closely to the forearm when the carbine was placed in a saddle boot, and the standard carbine sling bar and ring on the left wrist. The buttplate has the same trap as the carbine and the stock has a storage compartment for a three-piece cleaning rod and ruptured case extractor (not included). The carbine has a special Buffington rear sight calibrated to 2000 yards and correctly marked "XC" on the upper right side of the leaf. The lock plate is marked with the Eagle and Shield in front of the hammer followed by "U.S./ SPRINGFIELD". The top of the low arch breech block is marked: "U.S. / MODEL / 1873" and the left side of the barrel is stamped with "V / P / Eagle Head /P" proof and inspection marks. No firing proof or inspection mark is visible on the stock. Casehardened receiver and blue remaining parts. Almost all of the production (in varied quantities) were issued to all active service cavalry regiments in the American West.
BBL: 24 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 45-70
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 340387
Condition: Very fine as arsenal refurbished. The barrel and lock retain 95% of the armory blue finish. There are a few dings and scratches, and some minor pitting under the finish. The receiver retains most of the original case colors mixed with smooth brownish patina. The remaining parts retain almost all of the original blue finish. The stock has had a coat of varnish applied and remains good with a shallow gouge on the left upper forearm and scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The lock markings are fading, otherwise the markings are clear. Mechanically excellent. This is a solid example of a scarce experimental trapdoor carbine that would be a key piece in any advanced Trapdoor Springfield collection.