These Trapdoor Forager 20 gauge shotguns had a total production of approximately 1,388 and were manufactured from 1880 to 1884. This conversion was done by taking the salvaged 58 caliber barrel, shortening it to 26 inches and reaming out the original rifled bore to 20 gauge. From the materials standpoint, there were only three components of the Model 1881 shotgun that were new manufacture, the brass bead sight, the shell extractor and the forearm screw lug attaching it to the barrel. Modifications to the receiver required reaming it to accommodate the 20 gauge shell. The stock was modified by filling the ramrod hole, shortening the forearm and shaping it to a desired contour. A lug for the forearm screw was soldered to the barrel and a matching mortise for the lug was cut into the stock. The lock plate is marked "U.S./SPRINGFIELD/1873" ahead of the eagle shield motif. The breechblock is marked "1881". Casehardened breechblock and barrel tang with the remaining metal surfaces blue. One piece straight grip stock shortened at the forearm with a steel "U.S." marked buttplate and faint cartouche on the left wrist..

Good. The metal surfaces have a mottled brown patina with some scattered minor pitting. The buttplate has a darker patina and is pitted. The lightly sanded, reoiled stock remains very good with a few minor dings and scratches. Clear markings, unless noted above. The action is excellent.