This is truly an exceptional example of a U.S. Springfield Model 1879 trapdoor carbine with standard markings and features and an "SWP/1880" cartouche. The serial number dates to early 1881 per the National Park Service records. A cleaning rod, carbine sling, Model 1887 carbine boot, and a carbine socket are all included. The Model 1879 is an unofficial title for an improved version of the historic Model 1873 trapdoor which was the first standard issue U.S. military arm that used metallic cartridges and was carried by Custer and his men at the Battle of Little Bighorn. Though other metallic cartridge weapons had been used earlier, they were not standardized and used across the Army. The trapdoor series went through several periods of alterations and improvements and were widely used up through the Spanish-American War. They are best known for their use in the late 19th century Indian Wars, but they also served alongside Krag rifles in auxiliary roles in the Philippine-American War. Some are even reported to have been used by National Guard units during WWI and beyond. Therefore, examples in high condition are very hard to find. The trapdoor's use in the Indian Wars has led some to say it is truly "The Gun that Won the West" since the Springfield Model 1873 and following models were used in far more decisive battles than the Winchester Model 1873 or other contenders for the title.