51,389 Model 1868 Trapdoor Rifles were manufactured, but they were relatively quickly replaced by the Model 1873s and subsequent .45-70 models. These early "Big .50" Trapdoor rifles and the later .45-70 models were widely used in the West and became popular with buffalo hunters. This rifle from the western collection of John Fox clearly saw considerable use on the frontier and has lots of character. Many in the West, including Native Americans, couldn't afford to replace their rifles if they got damaged and came up with ingenious "frontier" repairs to keep their weapons serviceable like you see on this rifle. The buttstock was cracked through the wrist, perhaps after being dropped from horseback or from being used as a club and was then pinned and wrapped with copper wire. To further secure the wire, they used some solder on each side. The cleaning rod is also hammered out, perhaps to lengthen it. The result is a rifle that remains ready for action and has some really cool frontier appeal. This "1870" dated rifle has the standard markings and features.

Fine "frontier issued" condition with an old blued finish remaining on the lock and breech and smooth brown patina on most of the remaining metal. The rear sight is missing its elevator, and the front sling swivel is bent. The stock has the ingenious repairs noted above and otherwise general moderate wear that you'd expect on a frontier rifle. Mechanically fine. Provenance: The John Fox Collection.