^Lot 391 Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle

Indian Wars Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle, with leather sling, #443016, .45-70 Gov't cal., 32-5/8'' barrel marked ''V/P/(eaglehead)/P'' and ''A'' at breech and fitted with a block-blade front sight (serves as a bayonet lug) and Buffington adjustable rear sight (correctly marked ''R'', for Rifle); hinged breechblock (trapdoor) is marked ''U.S./Model/1884''; flat lockplate is marked ''(spread eagle)'' to left of ''U.S./Springfield'' beneath trapdoor latch; steel furniture including two spring-retained barrel bands (top with stacking swivel), two-piece triggerguard (with sling swivel at front), buttplate marked ''US'' on top tang, nosecap, and slotted button-head steel cleaning rod; one-piece oil-stained walnut fullstock. Mfg'd 1889. Condition is fine. Barrel, bands, lockplate and triggerguard retain most of their original military blue, buttplate with 50% blue and cleaned erosion, trapdoor and rear tang with mottled case hardening colors; all markings are clear. Stock is solid with scattered use and handling dings, nice color and a crisp ''SWP/1889'' cartouche of armory inspector Samuel W. Porter at left wrist and an encircled ''P'' on belly. Action is strong and smooth; bore is brilliant with distinct rifling. Leather sling shows light age cracking, good color and finish, and is marked ''Rock Island/Arsenal/E.H.S.''. Est.: $600-$900. (Antique)