The rifle appears to be a commercial conversion and has been fitted with a heavy, full octagon barrel with a blade/flip-up globe front and R. S. Lawrence patent folding ladder rear sights. The rifle retains the original, 'long wrist' stock, which has been shortened into a Schnabel forend with buffalo horn insert, checkering added to the wrist and forearm, and a trapdoor buttplate with cleaning rod included. The rifle retains the original, "MODEL/1873" marked, 'high arch' breech block and undated lock plate. The rifle appears to be one of the surplus Model 1873 Trapdoor rifles altered to sporting configuration by Schuyler, Hartley & Graham in the 1880s to satisfy the need for buffalo rifles in the West. Many of these rifles were marketed by E. C. Meacham of Saint Louis, leading to them sometimes being referred to as "Meacham Rifles".

Fine as period converted, retains 60% blue finish and 25% case colors with the balance a smooth brown-grey patina. The reoiled wood is very good with some scattered minor dings and scratches, a hairline crack in each side at the forend, and crisp checkering overall. Mechanically excellent.