What to look for when buying a Springfield Trapdoor

[shooter88]

Hello everyone. I am in the market for a Springfield Trapdoor for my next milsurp. The oldest rifle I have is a Krag, and decided to begin collecting rifles that are earlier than that. I looked on Gunbroker and see that they range in price from $300-over $1800. That is quite the gap. I will not be shooting this rifle but as with all my milsurps, I want it complete but I don't have to have anything completely original either. Any suggestions?

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[pickled]

and read it

[Wayner1954]

The .45-70 Springfield by Joe Poyer and Craig Riesch For Collectors Only
This book would be a good place to start. I like your self am in the market for a nice trapdoor Springfield and trying to learn a bit about them before my purchase.
The book starts by saying there has been some shananigins in the selling of these fine rifles
Because they can be very expensive some unscrupulous people will try to misrepresent.
Springfield Trapdoor rifles can be had for anywhere from 600.00 to over 3,000.00.
Good luck on your search.

[Fred G.]

Read all that there is about them and Then you will know what it is YOU want to buy. You will have lots of variations to chose from. With the knowledge that you gather, you will Know what to look for, because you already know that you want to buy a Correct trapdoor, whatever it is.
So to answer your question, you should look for an All Correct trapdoor. Now you can start reading up on the subject. When you know enough, you'll know what it is you are looking for and at.

[BEAR]

Hey Fred ... there's people looking for you over on Jouster. Some think you fell down a sink hole created by your Springfield rifle fence post.

[Fred G.]

Thanks Bear. I reported in.

[mannparks]

Without a doubt the most intelligent and knowledgeable trapdoor folks are on Al Frascia's website which is trapdoor collectors

[Wayner1954]

What to look for when buying a Springfield Trapdoor












Hello everyone. I am in the market for a Springfield Trapdoor for my next milsurp. The oldest rifle I have is a Krag, and decided to begin collecting rifles that are earlier than that. I looked on Gunbroker and see that they range in price from $300-over $1800. That is quite the gap. I will not be shooting this rifle but as with all my milsurps, I want it complete but I don't have to have anything completely original either. Any suggestions?

Just to touch bases. I found exactly what I was looking for on GunBroker.com It was my very first purchase on the sight so I was apprehensive. It turned out to be a Springfield Model 1888 rod bayonet rifle. Beautiful condition all correct with no reserve. The picture were very good. I decided to take a chance but for 200.00 more than minimum bid I could buy now.
I didn't want to miss this opportunity so I hit the buy now button with a dealer that had 1300 or so A+ rating and reviews the old warrior showed up yesterday, and wow I am so pleased.
The rifling is very strong and bore is shiny. Stock is in great condition. I will cherish this rifle for a long time. Good luck on your pursuit. Once I get some pics I'll post.