This is one of only 1,001 Model 1880 experimental rifles manufactured approximately April-June of 1881. This rifle was the first attempt at adopting the ramrod-bayonet by the U.S. military, which was received negatively, as were almost all attempts that followed all the way up to early Model 1903s. This rifle has standard Springfield Armory markings and features, clipped on front sight hood, "SWP/1881" cartouche on the stock, and "US" marked buttplate. Included is a "ROCK ISLAND/ARSENAL" and "E.H.S." marked leather sling.

Very fine, retains 75% plus original blue and oil-quenched finish with a speckling of light oxidation along the barrel and patches of smooth brown/grey patina on the heel and toe of the buttplate. The fine wood has a few large vertical dents visible on the right side of the buttstock, some scattered light-minor dings, and crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent.