Springfield 1873 Trap-Door Rifle - Information?

[S&WOwner]

I just picked up a Springfield 1873 Trap-Door. The seller said it was a Springfield 1878 BUT it sure looks like a 1873. Anyway, the overall length is 52 inches. Any information on this new puppy would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[Patrick Chadwick]

I think we had exactly the same confusion on this forum a couple of months ago, because of a deeply stamped 3 looking like a worn 8.
Quite simply, the seller misread the stamp on the trapdoor as 1878 instead of 1873.

[S&WOwner]

I think we had exactly the same confusion on this forum a couple of months ago, because of a deeply stamped 3 looking like a worn 8.
Quite simply, the seller misread the stamp on the trapdoor as 1878 instead of 1873.

Thanks!

[Tom in N.J.]

Who punched over the serial number so that it can no longer be read.

[S&WOwner]

Who punched over the serial number so that it can no longer be read.

Like a fool - I purchased this puppy before doing any research. I didn't realize that that was the spot for a serial number. Yea, I know - STUPID!

[S&WOwner]

OK - I found a few threads that identified markings near the butt plate of a Springfield as being (top to bottom) Infantry, Company and Rack Number. Assuming that "might" be true - can anyone help me ID the markings on my puppy?

MARK: "I"?
MARK: "C", "D" or "O"?
MARK: "23"

Thanks!

[Fred G.]

Your rear barrel band is on backwards. The U is always supposed to be on the right side with the opening of the U towards the muzzle. It's tapered to fit the barrel's taper.

[S&WOwner]

Thanks Fred - it has been reversed!

[Fred G.]

Neat rifle. Say, I noticed in the photo of the butt plate tang (Great detailed photo by the way) that there's lumpy surface rust on it. Here's what I read in an old book on collecting antique guns about dealing with that. They say to take a razor blade, maybe a Teflon coated one, and using the edge like a paint scraper, gently scrape away the surface crud while applying drops of Oil on it as you go. It really works quite well and doesn't result in any damage or scratches to the steel if done correctly with the Oil. I highly recommend the technique and have used it on all sorts of neglected antique firearms. Try it.

[S&WOwner]

Thanks Fred - I will give it a try and let you know how it goes. Thanks!