This is a scarce seldom encountered example of one of approximately 100 Model 1870 Navy contract rolling block rifles that was converted to 22LR by the Winchester factory in 1889. These rifles were intended to conduct rifle practice on board ships while at sea and is considered the very first U.S. Military training rifle ever issued. The interesting aspect is that the original barrel is 32 inches long while the 22LR barrel liner installed by the Winchester factory is only approximately 20 inches long. These rifles were originally manufactured by Springfield Armory under a royalty agreement from Remington Arms. Out of the first 10,000 produced all were rejected by the Navy and sold commercially. Evidently Springfield did produce some acceptable version as this example carries the full U.S. Navy acceptance proofs. These rifles are distinguished by the 1870 date on the receiver and the low spur hammer and Navy acceptance proofs. The right side of the receiver is stamped with the U.S. "Eagle/Shield" motif-over "U.S./SPRINGFIELD/1870" and the top of the barrel is correctly stamped with the Navy Anchor. The left side of the barrel is also stamped with "No. 71 (conversion serial number), /W.W.K. 1889 P/H.B.R.". The upper tang has the two line Remington patent dates (1864 and 1868). It is fitted with two barrel bands and a stud for a bayonet under the muzzle of the barrel. It has a blue (reward) folding rear sight that is graduated "2"-"9" on the back side of the face. It is fitted with a full length walnut forearm and stock. The left side of the stock has a small very faint oval "ESA" inspector cartouche with a "US" stamped buttplate. These rifles have the armory bright barrel, barrel bands, breechblock and hammer with a color casehardened receiver.

Good overall with the exposed metal parts having a brown patina. The receiver has grayed out completely and there is some fine erosion/pin prick pitting on the side of the receiver. The reoiled stock and forend are both good showing years of use, handling marks and light pressure marks overall from being on board the early navy ships. The cartouche is visible but very faint. A solid example of rare navy training rifle.