This trapdoor carbine was manufactured circa 1874 and thus was manufactured well-before the Battle of Little Bighorn. It is believed that most of the carbines issued to the 7th Cavalry 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 tribes. All of the approximately 250 7th Cavalry carbines are presumed to have been picked up by the Indians as none were found on the battlefield, with many being used over the next several decades in further battles as well as hunts. This example shows signs of heavy use and has the standard markings and features along with carved initials (possibly "MC") in the left side of the wrist and a circle of brass tacks in the right side of the buttstock. Includes "The Springfield Carbine on the Western Frontier" by Hammer and "North County Antiques Monthly" from June 1989 with information on these type of guns.