This trapdoor carbine was manufactured pre-1876 and subsequently refurbished overall. Other carbines in the same serial number range as this example were previously identified as shipped in 1874 plenty early enough to have been issued to Custer's men or other units prior to their final bloody battle. However, it is believed that most of the 7th Cavalry carbines were in the 33000-43700 range. Many trapdoor carbines were used extensively by the U.S. Cavalry throughout the Indian Wars and also fell into the hands of the Lakota, Cheyenne, and other Native Americans. 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 for 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 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. The stock is a later production type with a compartment. An "ESA" cartouche is stamped on the stock wrist and a double struck circle "P" proof is marked on the stock behind the trigger guard tang.

Fine. The carbine retains 70% arsenal refurbished blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. There is some minor pitting on the lock plate. The action retains 95% plus arsenal refurbished case colors. The stock is fine with some minor pressure dings and scratches. The buttplate trapdoor does not fully open. Mechanically excellent.