This is a very good example of a trapdoor carbine that exhibits both Model 1879 and Model 1884 features. The star markings on the receiver have long been an unusual mark that has not been fully explained. Most experts believe the star markings indicate a reclaimed model receiver of some sort, which could be completely correct, as in this example the receiver falls into the late 1879 serial number range but it was produced with many of the 1884 pattern changes before the actual Model 1884 was adopted. This example has the new features such as the wider receiver, color casehardened high arch breech block with the "U.S./MODEL 1873" markings, with a three click tumbler lock mechanism and the new style Model 1884 Buffington rear sight, correctly marked with a letter "C" at the top of the slide. The lock plate still retains the old style markings of "U.S. SPRINGFIELD/1973", that was dropped in the 1877 models. The rear of the barrel has the "V/P/Eagle Head/P" proofs with NO letter "A" on top of the barrel which may have indicated it was an altered configuration, which it is not. It has the correct carbine style stock with the butt trap compartment with three piece cleaning rod and ruptured shell extractor and is fitted with the original sling bar and ring on the left side. It is also stamped with a boxed "SWP/1882" cartouche along with a circled "P" proof behind the two-piece trigger guard.

Very good overall with traces of the original finish which has completely browned out on all the exposed metal surfaces. The stock is also very good with its original dark brown oil finish showing some minor handling marks and light pressure dents in various places overall. Mechanically fine. A very nice trapdoor carbine.