Invented in 1879 and selected by the Magazine Rifle Board in 1882 for trials, only 753 Chaffee-Reese rifles were produced. The Chaffee-Reese design used an internal magazine running the full length of the buttstock, with a double ratchet bar system controlling cartridge advancement. Powered by movement of the bolt, the ratchet bars could be locked out for single shot fire, a popular feature on early magazine rifles for armies afraid of their soldier's rate of fire exceeding their logistics. Blade front and "ski ramp" ladder rear sight, with the "V/P/eagle head" proofs on the left side of the breech and "U.S. -- SPRINGFIELD. -- 1884." on top of the left receiver wall. Smooth straight wrist stock, with a slotted cleaning rod, brown leather sling, and smooth buttplate with loading gate on the back.

Very good. A mixed brown and gray patina is present on the steel components, with scattered spotting and mild handling marks. Mild scuffs and dings are present on both the wood and metal, with some heavier dents on the butt. The cartouche is lightly visible. The sling shows mild age cracking and wear. Mechanically fine.