^Lot 4368 UNUSUAL SPRINGFIELD 1879 TRAPDOOR WITH ODD MUZZLE

ATTACHMENT. Cal. 45-70. S# 166467. Bbl. shortened to approx. 24 3/4". Muzzle is fitted w/ a 5" steel device w/ a gap between the rifle bbl. & the unrifled muzzle extension that opens into a bulbous chamber that may act as a suppressor. Sights are removed. 1873 dated low arch breechblock. Flat style lock plate. Stock is shortened to single band configuration w/ 1881 dated "SWP" cartouche on left side. Toeline has an "N" over the circle "P" firing proof. 1996 letter between Joseph W. Wannemaker and Richard D. Branum the lack of information about the alteration to the muzzle. Mr. Branum states he first heard of this rifle in 1957 from the man who said he acquired it at the military academy at West Point. 5 pages of drawings and specifications supplied by Joe Wannemaker are included. CONDITION: 90% lightly faded bbl. blue showing scattered spots of corrosion. Receiver blue is faded to gray showing corrosion on front ring. Breech block shows 30% lightly visible case colors. Original stock finish shows wear w/ small dents & handling marks having cracks & chips around buttplate. Bore retains sound rifling showing small spots of pitting. PROVENANCE: From the estate collection of Thomas J. Mulligan. (01-23381/DS). ANTIQUE. $1000-1500.