This U. S. Model 1884 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle was cut back at the forearm. The Director of Civilian Marksmanship offered Trapdoor rifles to NRA members at low cost, and such famous mail order merchants as Sears and Roebuck listed such guns in their early catalogs. They were often sporterized when they were sold to the public. The bore is dark and heavily pitted. The walnut stock has been refinished and all of the cartouche marks were removed. The Model 1884 was in production until late 1890 when manufacture turned to the 1888 rod bayonet model, production of which continued into1893. Trigger reach is 13-1/4" and the weight is 8.2 pounds.

Chambered for the .45-70 Government cartridge. The barrel has developed a textured brown patina. The bore is dark, rough, and shreds a cleaning patch. The barrel is marked with the V, over P, proof marks. Just below these marks is an upraised eagle head over P. The top of the tapered round barrel is marked with a stamped letter A, an individual inspector's mark. The Buffington rear sight is marked up to 2,000 yards, unfortunately the screw adjustments for windage and elevation not work. A blade front sight is mounted behind the muzzle.

The stock has many dings and marks from over a century of handling. The hole for the cleaning rod was plugged when the forearm was cut back and sportorized. The cartouche marks were removed during the refinishing process. The number 18 is stamped on the right side of the buttstock. The iron furniture has aged to a textured brown patina. The buttplate is heavily textured from being stored on a damp floor. The comb extension of the buttplate is stamped with U.S.. The serial number, 409XXX, is clearly marked on the breech of the rifle. The door itself bears the markings U.S. over MODEL over 1878. The trigger guard is heavily textured and the rear sling swivel is missing from the front of the bow. The one remaining barrel band and its spring are in the correct position. The band is marked with the letter U, the open end of which faces forward on the right side of the rifle.

The lock works crisply, and the trigger release is positive at only 2 to 3 pounds pressure. The grooved face target style trigger feels very nice, with a smooth release. The trapdoor action is solid, and the firing pin moves smoothly within the breech block, as it should. The lock plate is marked with a forward facing eagle next to U.S. over SPRINGFIELD. The lock works crisply, and the trigger release is positive and smooth.

This rifle would make a great display piece for decorator use. The bore is dark and heavily pitted. It could also be used for spare parts to help restore another trapdoor in your collection. Order it for a ten day visual inspection. You will be delighted. Else if it does not fit you, return it in unfired condition for same-day refund. Postage is your only risk, when you order any one-of-a-kind gun from Track, whether new, used, or antique.