^Lot 23 Springfield Model 1873 Takedown Cavalry Carbine

U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Cavalry Cartridge Carbine, with 1877 Improvements, #271994, .45-70 CF cal., 22'' round barrel marked ''V / P / (eaglehead) / P'' on left at breech, small block-blade front sight and correct ''C''-marked (for ''Carbine'') adjustable leaf rear sight, trapdoor marked ''US / Model / 1873'' at hinge, steel lockplate marked ''U.S. / Springfield'' to right of spread-wing eagle, steel furniture including triggerguard, ''U.S.'' marked buttplate with hinged swing-out door over trap in butt for three-piece cleaning rod (not present), sling bar and ring mounted opposite the lock, and spring-retained single barrel band. Originally with blued and case hardened finishes. Halfstock is one-piece walnut, oil-finished. The major 1877 improvements on this carbine include the buttplate door and cleaning rod compartment, sling bar and ring, thicker stock wrist with elongated comb, and low-arch breechblock. Condition is very good showing an overall dark gunmetal grey-brown patina mixed with silvering and surface discoloration to case hardening in trapdoor area; lockplate with a bluish-brown color; two-piece triggerguard retains perhaps 50% blue, bright in protected areas. Stock is sound showing the expected light marks of military use but no damage, good color and a later coat of varnish. No stock inspector's cartouche is visible. Action is tight and crisp; bore is mirror bright with good rifling. Est.: $750-$1,000. (Antique)