This is an example of a scarce, one of a 1,000 experimental Model 1886 Carbines manufactured by Springfield Armory for cavalry troop trials. These carbines feature a longer 24 inch barrel and full length walnut stock, and are generally found in the 325,000 to 400,000 serial number range. The stock is fitted with a sling swivel near the butt, a curved swivel mounted on the front barrel band, which was designed to fit closely to the forearm when the carbine was placed in a saddle boot, and the standard carbine sling bar and ring on the left wrist. The buttplate has the same trap as the carbine and the stock has a storage compartment for a three-piece cleaning rod and ruptured case extractor (not included). The carbine has a special Buffington rear sight calibrated to 2,000 yards and correctly marked "XC" on the upper right side of the leaf. The lock plate is marked with the Eagle and Shield in front of the hammer followed by "U.S/SPRINGFIELD". The top of the low arch breech block is marked: "U.S./MODEL/1873" and the left side of the barrel is stamped with " V/P/Eagle Head" proof and inspection marks. No firing proof or inspection mark is visible on the stock. Casehardened receiver and blue remaining parts. Almost all of the production (in varied quantities) were issued to all active service cavalry regiments in the American West.

Very good as arsenal refurbished. The barrel retains 30% blue finish with a dark patina on the balance. The lock and trigger guard retain most of the original blue finish, with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The stock is good with overall scattered dents and dings one might expect to see on an American West cavalry weapon. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. A very solid example of a rare Model 1886 Experimental Trapdoor carbine.