Trapdoor Rifles

Here is a model 1888 rod bayonet that was originally a model 1884 rod bayonet.
Serial number 318422 issued on 08/31/86 to Co.L 16th Infantry according to SRS.
Once returned to the armory it was then made into an 1888 trials rifle with the experimental rod and latch mechanism. Eventually it was then fitted with the latch used on the standard M88.
This rifle has the experimental rod, 1873 dated breech block, two piece trigger guard, 1889 cartouche under the rear lock plate screw along with two circle P proof's.

A couple more

One more

Very nice! One could make a mini-collection - or grouping within a collection, of just the rod-bayonets, I guess.

1. M1880
2. M1882
3. M1884 (unaltered)
4. M1888/M1889 (the "push-me-pull-you" from the "trials" period, unknown until fairly recently, and NOT easy to document)
5. M1888 (altered from an 1884, with a receiver in the low 300's, but otherwise entirely standard)
6. M1888 (entirely standard, but with a totally off-the wall [but post-96300] receiver, from the "sweeping out the shop"period)
7. M1888 (entirely standard with a normal (500,000+) receiver)

In fairness, it should be said that numbers 5, 6, and 7 are truly "distinctions without a difference."

A number 1 stands out easily and they ARE around, though not cheap. You'll either have be very rich, have started collecting LONG ago (or make your own ) for a 2, be well-heeled AND lucky to find a 3, be VERY, VERY observant for a 4 - only the last three can be had with ease and no great expense! Point to note about 3's and 5's: It IS possible to make 1888 wood from 1884, by shortening the tenon, and enlarging the rod channel, but you cannot go the other way - DON'T pay big bucks for an "1884" with a fat rod channel, and replaced wood between upper band and latch housing!

And, while you are out there, check ALL, yes ALL, "regular" (non RB) M1884 rifles to be sure you do not miss a Positive Cam! Of course they are marked "1888", but who looks at that on EVERY bog-standard "1884" they pass on a table? The little screw that gives it away can be VERY hard to see in bad lighting or if you are in a hurry.

Good things come to he (or she) who does their research first, AND takes the time to look for little details. DON'T be the one to say "I just bought a gun about which I know nothing for $XXXX, how did I do?

“What did I just buy and how much is it worth?”
Yep, That happens a lot.

Well Dick, I do have #1, a fake #3 but it's a beautiful representation that only cost 1175.00 with great case colors and blueing. Whoever made it up used an M80 stock along with a real lock assembly and rod bayonet. I found that the front sight was removed and then the M84 sight and latch assembly was added.
I also have #'s 5, 6 and 7.
#2 will probably never happen

1 - real, and nice (also have a rough duplicate with a LOT of "character" if someone wants a gap-filler)
2 - 'replica' - SRS listed as "82B", but HEAVILY "restored".
3 - real, SRS-listed, very nice, and was issued to a distant cousin!
4 - was unaware of this variation when still acquiring rifles - won't seek one out
5 - no real interest
6 - no real interest
7 - real, VERY nice