This is a very rare example of an early Springfield Model 1884 experimental ram-rod trapdoor rifle that was converted to the later Springfield Model 1888 trapdoor rifle with the late pattern ramrod bayonet. The Model 1884 rifles fall into the serial number range around 320,000 with only 1000 ever produced. These were the first trapdoor rifles to use the sliding round ramrod and bayonet. These early rifles can be distinguished by two features, 1) they have a flat latch/catch mechanism that holds the bayonet either stored or extended and the round ramrod bayonets have a rounded cutout section on the rod itself. The later patterns, such as Model 1888, had the improved catch mechanism (like this example) with the more rounded latch/catch levers that actually protrudes from the side of the mechanism as mounted on the underside of the barrel. The ramrod bayonet actually differs in that it has four distinctive cutout areas on the bayonet that has a square shoulder, locking latch to securely hold the bayonet in place. This has the standard markings on the various other parts, such as the breech end barrel marked with "V/P/Eagle Head/ P" on the left side, with the top of the barrel stamped with a letter "A", indicating altered by Springfield. It has the standard fixed front sight with the permanently attached front sight cover marked with the letter "R" indicating rifle with the second pattern Model 1884 Buffington rear sight. It still retains the original low arch breechblock, marked "U.S. /MODEL/1878", with the lock plate correctly marked with the spread wing "American Eagle/Shield motif" clutching the arrows. It has the three click tumbler, with the two-piece trigger guard and trigger guard bow. It is fitted with a beautiful, straight grip walnut stock with the most beautiful "Tiger Stripped" near presentation grade, wood we have ever seen on a issue rifle stock. The stock is correctly fitted with two barrel bands, both marked "U" on the right. The left side of the stock has a single boxed "SWP/ 1890" cartouche, which would correspond to the time frame when this rifle would have been upgraded, along with a single encircled, script "P" proof behind the trigger plate. It is fitted with the correct buttplate with the butt trap compartment marked with the "US" on the heel and is complete with a Model 1879 field disassembly tool/screwdriver, ruptured shell extractor and bayonet/cleaning rod tip.

Fine as arsenal converted with 40% of the blue finish overall on all the parts, showing mostly in the protected areas. The breechblock has turned a silver gray patina color overall. The stock is also in fine condition with a clear, visible cartouche showing only minor handling marks and light pressure dents in various areas. The markings are clear and it is in mechanically fine condition.