This is a very good example of a desirable Model 1880 ram-rod bayonet rifle. These were produced between the serial numbers of 154,000-158,000 with this example being numbered "154350", as manufactured circa 1880/81. This series of rifle was similar to the Model 1879 and was the first to use the experimental sliding bayonet, of which 1000 were produced. This configuration ultimately proved to be another failed Ordnance design with almost all being converted back into the standard rifle configuration. These rifles are similar to the model 1879 and have the wider/thicker receiver with improved gas ports, Model 1879 rear sight, that is adjustable for both elevation and windage, correctly stamped with a letter "R" for rifle on the side of the base and top of the rear sight leaf. The lock plate is marked with the Springfield Armory Eagle/Shield motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" and is fitted with the three-click tumbler. The barrel has the larger, "V/P/eagle head/P" proofs and the low arched breechblock marked "U.S./MODEL/1873". The rifle is fitted with two barrel bands that are correctly marked with the letter "U" on the right side, the two piece trigger plate and trigger guard bow with the smooth trigger. It has a one-piece replacement stock that does not have either a final acceptance cartouche nor "P" proof. It is fitted with a standard steel buttplate with "U.S." stamped on the heel.

Fine condition overall with 30% of the blue finish mostly in the protected areas with the exposed metal surfaces showing a mottled blue/brown patina finish with some old minor hard rust/erosion in some areas. The breechblock and breech plug have a dark blue/brown patina finish overall also mixed with some old very small hard rust spots or corrosion. The stock is also in fine condition with a nice original dark brown oil finish overall with some minor handling marks and light pressure marks in a few places. Mechanically in excellent condition.