Manufactured in 1870, this very scarce carbine is one of only 314 manufactured at Springfield Armory under a royalty agreement with Remington. These few hundred carbines, as well as 1,008 rifles, were manufactured for trials testing in which they competed against many entrants, including the Springfield Trapdoor, which was ultimately chosen. The most distinguishing features on this carbine is the "eagle/U.S./SPRINGFIELD/1870" marking on the right of the receiver, the smaller hammer spur and thumb piece on the breech block, and the longer Springfield style forearm which measures 11 3/4 inches. It also has the standard two-line Remington address and patent dates on the upper tang, is fitted with blade and folding ladder sights, and a saddle ring bar is mounted on the left of the frame and wrist with a saddle ring. A script "J.S." is hand carved on the left of the stock. Some sources claim that a number of these carbines, and other arms from the trial, were carried by the 8th Cavalry during the Red River War. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Good, showing a mix or dark grey patina and silvered case colors on the frame with the balance of the metal showing a mottled grey-brown patina and clear markings. The refinished wood is also good with the above stated carving, a series of small splices and fillers on the right side, and a few hairline cracks, one in the left from the buttplate to the wrist. Mechanically excellent. An exceptionally rare experimental U.S. carbine!