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Original Springfield Trapdoor ''Forager'' Shotgun

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:400.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Original Springfield Trapdoor ''Forager'' Shotgun
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Original Springfield Trapdoor ''Forager'' Shotgun, #245, 20 ga. CF, 26'' unmarked round steel smoothbore barrel, slanted ''1881'' marking below trapdoor hinge, serial number at breech. Lockplate with large spread-eagle and ''U.S./Springfield/1873''. Two-click tumbler; carbine-style triggerguard without sling swivel; smooth trigger. Originally blued and case hardened finish. A Model 1879 receiver was enlarged to take the 20 gauge shell and fitted with a special extractor. Walnut stock was cut down from a Civil War-era musket stock; forend attached to barrel with a single screw from underside. Original ''Foragers'' are very scarce, as many similar examples have been converted from trapdoor rifles. Mfg'd 1881-1885 at Springfield Armory in a quantity of just 1,376 guns, and issued two per company for government hunters to supply fresh meat at remote Western posts. Condition is good to very good showing clear markings and overall smooth brownish metal. Stock shows age, use, dings, clean crack at front lock retaining screw, with an added coat of heavy varnish. Smooth and tight action; bore is clean but is ringed approx. 6.5'' from muzzle. A scarce and desirable genuine armory-made Forager shotgun. Est.: $800-$1,200. (Antique)(Joe Poyer collection)