This is one of only 753 Chaffee-Reese rifles manufactured in 1884 making them some of the rarest rifles manufactured by Springfield Armory. This example is documented in the book "U.S. Military Bolt Action Rifles" by Bruce Canfield on page 92. The design was invented by General Reuben S. Chaffee and Jasper N. Reese in 1879 and was one of the rifles selected by the Magazine Rifle Board of 1882 for field trials. The complicated and fragile magazine system led to the design being abandoned. The barrel has the standard Springfield "V/P/eagle head" proof and inspection marks on the left rear of the barrel. The top left edge of the receiver is marked "U.S. -- SPRINGFIELD. -- 1884". The left side of the rear sight base is graduated "1-6" (100-600 yards) and marked "C-R". The face of the ladder is graduated "6-14" (600-1400 yards) and is drift adjustable for windage and also marked "C-R" on the lower face. It is fitted with a nearly full length walnut stock. The left rear side of the buttstock has a boxed "SWP/1884" cartouche, and a circled script "P" proof is stamped behind the lower tang. It is complete with the original button head cleaning rod and a leather sling. Formerly of the Bruce Canfield collection.

Fine with 60% original blue finish, 30% subtle original case colors, some reddish coloration on the front of the bolt, and light spotting. The reoiled stock is also fine and has some small chips at the edges of the inlet around the action, minor scrapes and dings, and very crisp markings. Mechanically fine.