My First Trapdoor is Now a complete Model 1884
Posted: Sat Mar 30, 2024 3:00 am
I’ve collected bolt action military surplus rifles that range from 1891 up through World War II, but this is my very first Springfield trapdoor rifle and I love it! I sincerely appreciate learning what I can about this amazing piece of American history.
From the online information I can find so far, it’s 434153 serial number says it was made in January or February 1889, which my understanding would make it a model 1884, but it has model 1873 on its side lock plate and on top of the breach as well. It does have the 1884 style rear peep hole site and the serrated trigger i’ve heard the Marines really liked!
Were trapdoor parts interchangeable between the model 1873 and 1884, or should this rifle have a 1884 side plate and 1884 dated breach? I believe the stock cartouche says 1889.
From the online information I can find so far, it’s 434153 serial number says it was made in January or February 1889, which my understanding would make it a model 1884, but it has model 1873 on its side lock plate and on top of the breach as well. It does have the 1884 style rear peep hole site and the serrated trigger i’ve heard the Marines really liked!
Were trapdoor parts interchangeable between the model 1873 and 1884, or should this rifle have a 1884 side plate and 1884 dated breach? I believe the stock cartouche says 1889.