^Lot 395 Springfield Model 1873-1877 Saddle Ring Carbine

Indian Wars Era U.S. Springfield Model 1873-1877 Saddle Ring Carbine, #181751, .45-70 Gov't CF cal., 22'' barrel with integral block-blade front sight and sliding-leaf rear sight (correctly marked ''C'' for Carbine), is marked ''V/P/(eagle head)/P'' at left breech; trapdoor breechblock is marked ''U.S./Model/1873'' at hinge; flat lockplate has a spread-wing eagle clutching olive branches to the left of ''U.S./Springfield/1873'' under trapdoor latch; steel furniture including a single spring-retained barrel band and two-piece triggerguard (both without sling swivels), and curved buttplate with sliding door opening to trap in butt for three-piece cleaning rod (rod is present) marked ''U.S./S.C.'' at top screw; oil-stained walnut halfstock. Mfg'd ca. 1877-78. While this Model 1873 carbine retains some early features, such as the ''1873'' lockplate date, sling bar and ring opposite the lock, and the pin-fastened front sight blade, it also features 1877 updates, such as the stock with a longer comb and trap in butt for a jointed cleaning rod, the ''low arch'' breechblock, and stepped receiver-barrel juncture. Condition is good. All metal surfaces are refinished in a deep blue-black finish. Stock is sound, showing light marks of military use and a partial ''SWP'' cartouche of Master Armorer Samuel W. Porter on left side, as well as an encircled ''P'' proofmark below. Action is strong; bore is clean with defined rifling. Est.: $500-$900. (Antique)