Manufactured in 1877 and 1878, this model was also known as the Transitional 1873/1879 with a total production of approximately 25,500. The lock is marked with the eagle, shield motif followed by "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" ahead of the hammer and the top of the low arch breechblock is marked "U.S./MODEL/1873". The left rear of the barrel is marked with the "V/P/eagle head/P" proof marks. The barrel is fitted with a bayonet lug front sight and M1879 adjustable rear sight with ski slope base. Three click tumbler, sling swivel mounted on the front of the trigger guard and forward barrel band, and mounted with a smooth full length walnut straight grip stock with a metal forend cap and "US" marked carbine style iron buttplate. The left wrist is marked with an oval "ESA/1878" cartouche. Comes with a slotted button head iron cleaning rod.

Fine. The barrel retains 70% original blue finish with some areas thinning to a smooth plum and showing a few minor dings. The lock and hammer retain 20% original blue with a smooth mottled gray patina on the balance. The breechblock has a smooth mottled gray patina with much of the original casehardened pattern remaining on the breechblock and strong traces of original case colors in protected areas. The re-oiled stock is fine with a minor chip on the upper right side in the forearm area, and overall some scattered minor dents and dings. The cartouche is clear. The markings are clear. Mechanically excellent.