Only around 4,500 of these so called "Transitional Model 1873/1879" carbines were manufactured between 1877-1878. This rifle is manufactured within the correct pre-100000 serial number range with the low-arch breechblock, standard blade front sight, the continuous curve notch and folding ladder rear sight graduated out to 1,200 yards and marked "C", "U.S./MODEL/1873" breechblock marking, no "1873" on the lock, single sling swivel on the barrel band (stacking swivels listed as standard), a faint oval cartouche, and a thick wrist stock with a 10 1/2 inch comb and a compartment in the butt (empty).

Fine with 70% plus of the bright case colors on the upper tang and breech, 60% dark oil quenched case colors on the lock and receiver, 70% original blue on the trigger guard and buttplate, a plumb brown on the barrel remaining of the original blue finish, and some minor spotting and scratches. The stock is very good as lightly sanded and reoiled with lightly visible restamped cartouche (over another cartouche) and has some minor dings. Mechanically excellent.