This is a fine example of a scarce Model 1880 ram rod bayonet rifle. These were produced in the very narrow serial number range of 154000-158000 with this example being numbered "156755", that was manufactured circa 1880/81. This series of rifles was similar to the Model 1879 and was the first to use the experimental sliding bayonet, of which 1000 were produced. This configuration ultimately proved another failed Ordnance design with almost all being converted back into the standard rifle configuration. These rifles have the newer features: wider receiver that became standard, improved gas ports, and new 1879 designed rear sight, that is adjustable for both elevation and windage, with the "R" (rifle) stamped on the side of the base and sight leaf. The lock plate is marked with the Springfield Armory Eagle/Shield motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" and is fitted with the three-click tumbler. The barrel has the standard larger, "V/P/eagle head/P" proofs and the low arched breechblock is marked "U.S./MODEL/1873". The rifle is fitted with two barrel bands that are correctly marked with the letter "U" on the right side, the two piece trigger plate and trigger guard bow with the smooth trigger. It has a one-piece full length walnut stock with a boxed "SWP/1881" cartouche on the left side with two circled "P" cartouches behind the trigger guard. It is fitted with a standard steel buttplate with the butt trap compartment. The right side of the buttstock has light painted markings of "46/17/N.G.", which stood for a state National Guard unit.

Fine condition with 70% of the faded blue finish overall with the balance turning a brown patina finish overall. The breech block and breech plug both retain, 50% of a faded case colors overall with clear distinct markings. The stock is also fine with a nice dark original color overall with numerous heavier pressure dents on the sides of the buttstock and the left side above and around the cartouche. There is also a thin/narrow very old, 1 inch section of wood that has been chipped out on the right side of the buttstock in front of the buttplate. There is also a very narrow wood split on the very front end of the stock just behind the bayonet attaching to extends to the first barrel band. The sliding bayonet and assembly is complete and intact. Mechanically excellent.