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SPRINGFIELD 1886 EXPERIMENTAL TRAPDOOR US CARBINE.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
SPRINGFIELD 1886 EXPERIMENTAL TRAPDOOR US CARBINE.

Cal. 45-70. S# 334058. Although never assigned a model designation, collectors refer to this rare carbine as a Model 1886, the first year it was produced. Approval was given on June 4, 1885 for manufacture of 1,000 carbines for field trials. Most saw active service with cavalry regiments stationed in the American west. With the 2" longer carbine barrel, the 500 grain bullet and 70 grain powder charge rifle ammunition was used. Although the carbines performed well in the field, they were recalled in 1888 at the beginning of the magazine rifle era. Many are believed to have been disassembled for their parts. The 24" barrels are shortened from rifle length with crowned muzzle. Pinned blade front sight with 1884 Buffington rear sight having modified leaf spacing marked "XC". 1873 Dated case colored low arch breechblock. Special 40" stock has a longer and thinner forend than the standard carbine stock. Stock is fitted with a butt swivel, left side is fitted with saddle ring and bar. Modified rifle upper barrel band has a bent swivel to match stock contour and is marked "U". Carbine buttplate has 9 1/4" deep hole to accommodate a longer cleaning rod set. CONDITION: barrel, lock and trigger guard retain 90% dull original blue. Receiver shows 70% lightly faded blue. Buttplate shows finish loss at heel. Breechblock retains 70% dark and fading case colors. Sanded and refinished stock lacks cartouches showing scattered scratches and small dents with small chips at toe. (01-21452/DS). Bore is bright with sound rifling showing only a few scattered spots of very light pitting. (01-21452/DS). ANTIQUE. $3,000-5,000.