Springfield Armory 1873 CAVALRY (Used)
Firearm Description Make: Springfield Armory Model: Model 1873 Trapdoor Cavalry Carbine Caliber: .45-70 Government Type: Single-Shot Military Carbine Action: Trapdoor Breechloading Action Finish: Blued barrel with case-hardened lock components Barrel Length: 22" (standard cavalry carbine specification) Weight: Approximately 7.5 lbs Capacity: Single Shot Sights: Buffington rear sight (depending on configuration and upgrades), blade front sight Safety Features: Half-cock hammer notch Material: Steel and walnut stock Identification The carbine appears to retain: Correct carbine-length stock. Saddle ring and bar on the left side. Trapdoor breech mechanism. Military-style rear sight. Proper cavalry configuration rather than a cut-down rifle. The lockplate is marked Springfield Armory, and the overall profile is consistent with an original Trapdoor Cavalry Carbine. Based on Springfield Armory serial number range. Serial 143XXX would generally date to 1883, likely sometime during that production year. Historical Context The Model 1873 Trapdoor Carbine is one of the most iconic U.S. military firearms. It was used during: The Indian Wars. Western frontier service. The period associated with cavalry units such as the 7th Cavalry. These carbines are closely associated with the era of figures such as George Armstrong Custer and the Battle of the Little Bighorn, although your specific carbine was manufactured several years after that battle. Safety Information Treat all firearms as loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. Be certain of your target and what lies beyond it. Use only safe, appropriate .45-70 Government ammunition suitable for Trapdoor actions. Have any antique firearm inspected by a qualified gunsmith before firing. Store firearms securely and prevent unauthorized access.