This shotgun is featured in "A Collectors Guide to United States Combat Shotguns" by Bruce Canfield on page 12 and "Complete Guide to U.S. Military Combat Shotguns" by Bruce Canfield on page 16. Only an estimated 1,376 Trapdoor 20 gauge "Forager" shotguns were manufactured in the early 1880s. They are the only shotguns ever manufactured at the Springfield Armory and were used by hunters and scouts primarily at western outposts in the late 19th century. Some were even used into the very early 20th century. They fire brass 20 gauge shells. There is faint cartouche that appears to be "SWP/1883" on the left side of the stock above the trigger. The lock has a three-click tumbler (two is standard) and standard Springfield markings. The breechblock is the Model 1879 type and has "1881" in italics on top of the special extractor. It has a carbine buttplate and trigger guard. Provenance: Bruce Canfield collection.

Very good plus. The trigger guard has 30% original blue, but the remaining components display brown patina, some surface oxidation, and minor marks. The revarnished stock is also very good and has scattered scrapes and dings, a few deeper dents, and some slight chips. Mechanically fine.