This is one of only 753 bolt action Chaffee-Reese rifles manufactured by Springfield Armory in 1884. This action was invented by General Reuben S. Chaffee and Jasper N. Reese in 1879 and was one of the rifles selected by the Magazine Rifle Board of 1882 for field trials. The innovative magazine consisted of a loading tube through the center of the buttstock that was loaded through the trapdoor in the buttplate. This tube employed a double ratchet mechanism that moved the cartridges forward each time the bolt was cycled. A cutoff switch on the right side of the receiver allowed soldiers to use it as a single shot and keep the magazine fully loaded in case the need for rapid firing arose. Only the initial order of 753 weapons were produced making this one of the rarest rifles manufactured by Springfield Armory. The barrel has the standard Springfield "V/P/eagle head" proof and inspection marks on the left rear of the barrel and "R" and "29" on top. The top left edge of the receiver is marked "U.S. -- SPRINGFIELD. -- 1884". The left side of the rear sight base is graduated "1-6" (100-600 yards) and marked "C-R". The face of the ladder is graduated "6-14" (600-1400) yards and is drift adjustable for windage and is also marked "C-R" on the lower face. It is fitted with a nearly full length walnut stock. The left rear side of the buttstock has a boxed "SWP/1884" cartouche, and a circled script "P" proof is stamped behind the trigger plate. It is complete with the original button head cleaning rod.

Very good as partially refinished (cold blue on barrel). The balance of rifle retains 40% of the original blue finish along with subdued case colors and has gray and brown patina on the balance along with patches of minor oxidation and moderate pitting. The wood is fine with some gouges, light scratches, and minor dings. The markings and cartouche are crisp. The action is fine.