These Trapdoor Forager shotguns had a total production of approximately 1,376 and were manufactured from 1880 to 1885. They were manufactured for use by government hunters and scouts at western military outposts. The shotguns were issued at the rate of two per company with the last known issued in 1906 in Alaska. Brass bead front sight with a "1881" marked breechblock, "PP" marked on left rear of barrel and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD/1873" ahead of the eagle shield motif marked lock plate. Casehardened breechblock and barrel tang with the remaining metal surfaces blue. One piece straight grip half stock with a steel "U.S." marked buttplate, a circled script "P" behind the trigger guard and cartouche (very faint) on the left wrist.

Good. The shotgun has a smooth mottled brown patina with traces of original blue finish remaining in the protected areas. The stock is fine with punch dot initials on the right side, a hairline crack near the lock screw, some chipping along the grain and some minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent.