This four-digit serial numbered trapdoor carbine was manufactured pre-1876 and is thus potentially one of the guns used by the 7th Cavalry at the Battle of Little Bighorn. Many trapdoor carbines were used extensively by the U.S. Cavalry throughout the Indian Wars and many also fell into the hands of the Indians. All of the 7th Cavalry carbines are presumed to have been picked up by the Indians as none were found on the battlefield and many were used over the next several decades in further battles, as well as hunts. This example has an integral blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight (graduated 1-5 on the base and 6-12 on the ladder), high arch breechblock marked with "MODEL/1873/eagle head/cross arrows/US", eagle motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD/1873" marked lock plate, and smooth stock with saddle ring and bar, no visible cartouche, and a "US" marked buttplate.

Fine. The frame and breechblock retains 75% of its original oil quenched casehardening. The barrel retains 50% arsenal blue. The balance of metal surfaces display dark patina and light pitting. The arsenal replacement stock is very fine and has some minor dings and a few chips. The lock functions fine, and the markings are clear.