Trapdoor Rifles

Awesome thanks for everyones posts it continually pushes the needle of my knowledge. I was nervous venturing into the M1865 which for me is my pinnacle on my interest. So thanks again and if there is anything unusual or different on the 65 I have please mention it.

Frank

Very cool. Can you tell what year the original musket was made (might be a remnant of the date stamped on the barrel)? Also, I 100% support you collecting the rest of the trapdoors. A collection of them all together is definitely eye-catching!

Awesome pics; thanks for sharing. If I am right, they are in order, but I am not sure about the last two. I have not delved into the 1873 yet.
I did not see any markings on the barrel. I hope to find a good M1866 next. Then go back for a Springfield Rifle Musket unless my wife stops me.


Frank

Sounds like a great plan!
Just one .58 rifle musket is a good start.

But, you may discover that you must have the 1855 with the Maynard tape primer, the simplified M1861, the workhorse of the way, the improved M1863, and the slightly different M1864 sometimes called M1863 Type 2. Lots of them out there, but be patient and pick one as nice as your M1865 and you will be happy.

Oh, Springfield also made flintlocks... you might keep that in the back of your mind.

As with any gun, buy some books before you buy an education about what you should have looked for.

Yes indeed, Books are the easiest and cheapest and the very best way to get an education about antique guns!