^Lot 12 Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor Infantry Rifle

Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor Infantry Rifle, #423826, .45-70 CF cal., 32-5/8'' round barrel marked ''V/P/(eagle head)'' at breech and mounted with the standard block-blade front and adjustable leaf Buffington rear sights (the latter correctly marked ''R'', for ''Rifle''); flush mounted lockplate marked ahead of hammer ''(spread-wing eagle)'' and ''U.S./Springfield'' in two lines; steel furniture including triggerguard with front sling swivel and long rear tang (a star is stamped on bottom of bow), grooved trigger, two spring-retained barrel bands (top band with sling swivel), nosecap, buttplate marked ''US'' ahead of top tang screw, and slotted button-tip ramrod. One-piece oil-finished walnut fullstock with an ''SWP'' mark (of Master Armorer Samuel W. Porter) within a rectangular cartouche having clipped-corners, on left side opposite the lock. Mfg'd 1886-91. Condition is near excellent retaining most of its original blue and case hardened finishes, the barrel having a dark blue-brown tone, the lockplate, barrel bands, nosecap, triggerguard, buttplate and ramrod showing bright glossy blue, and the case hardened breechblock (trapdoor) a blackish color. Stock is smooth and sound showing a few nicks but good color and perhaps a later coat of thin varnish; the buttstock inspector's mark is partially clear. Action is crisp; bore is brilliant with sharp rifling. Est.: $750-$1,250. (Antique)