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For sale is a U.S. Springfield Armory Model 1888 “Trapdoor” rifle in its original .45-70 Government caliber, manufactured in 1891 and classified as an antique, therefore exempt from FFL requirements WHERE LEGAL! The standard serial number range for the Model 1888 runs from approximately 503,501 to 568,000, with an estimated total production of 60,000 to 65,000 rifles between 1890 and 1893. This example, however, is one of the scarce “sweep-up” rifles assembled by Springfield Armory using previously manufactured receivers, or new "tool room" receivers. The receiver on this rifle was originally serial numbered in 1880 and was later assembled or rebuilt into Model 1888 configuration, a documented and recognized variation. It either left as a finished rifle and came back, then later was rebuilt into a Model 1888, or it had sat around SA for 11 years, possibly as a gauging/measurement tool? Approximately 5,000 rifles were produced in this lower serial range, and similar examples are recorded in the Springfield Research Service database, including serial numbers 125887, 126136, 126152, 126164, and 126348 listed as Model 1884/1888 rifles of this same type.

The breechblock is properly marked “U.S. / MODEL / 1884,” consistent with the overlap in designation between the Model 1884 and Model 1888 rifles, while the rear of the receiver bears the serial number. The top of the barrel is marked with an “A” just ahead of the receiver and “V / P” over an eagle’s head, with an additional “P” proof on the right side. The buttplate is marked “US,” and the lock plate displays the Great Seal of the United States along with “U.S. / SPRINGFIELD.” The underside of the stock bears a “P” within an oval, and the left side of the forend is clearly cartouched “SWP / 1891,” indicating inspection by Samuel W. Porter, Master Armorer at Springfield Armory. The barrel bands are stamped with a horizontal “U,” and the right side of the buttstock carries rack markings “12/905.”

The Model 1888 was the final trapdoor rifle manufactured for service with the U.S. Army and incorporated the improved ramrod-bayonet system, the strongest and most refined version of that unique design. Although officially discontinued in 1893, some of these rifles remained in service during the Spanish-American War due to shortages of Krag-Jorgensen rifles, and others continued in limited or rear-echelon use into the early 20th century, including the period of World War I. This example is in exceptional condition, with strong, legible markings throughout and is mechanically sound. The bore and rifling are in excellent condition with just a touch of very light, scattered pitting in a few spots. Absolutely fantastic rifle overall for 135 years old! It represents a scarce and historically significant “sweep-up” Model 1888—an important transitional rifle marking the end of the U.S. Army’s black powder .45-70 service era. I will require a copy of the buyer's ID certifying that they are over 21 years of age.

NOTE: THIS RIFLE IS ANTIQUE. NOT ALL STATES RECOGNIZE ANTIQUE STATUS. PURCHASING THIS RIFLE STATES THAT YOUR STATE DOES ACCEPT ANTIQUE STATUS, AND ALLOWS THEM TO BE SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO YOU, AND YOU ARE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD.

$2,000.00 plus actual Priority Mail or Ground Advantage shipping. I do not charge over my cost to ship. The first "I'll take it" posted here and followed up with an IMMEDIATE email to me at [email protected] gets it. That email must have your information (your phone number), the way you want to pay, and a zip code of where it is going to. I take Personal checks, Bank checks and Business checks (with MY  bank’s clear time), discreet Paypal gift, USPS money orders, or credit cards. Credit cards are plus 3.5% of the total.