This example falls within the 325000-400000 serial number range of the 1,000 experimental carbines with 24 inch barrels manufactured by Springfield Armory that collectors have termed the "Model 1886" although it has some features that do not conform with the features found in the Model 1886 carbines. It differs in that it is wearing a later Model 1888 trigger guard and Model 1888 ramrod bayonet, and it does not have the "wraparound" front sling swivel or buttplate compartment as typically seen on Model 1886s. The Buffington rear sight is marked "XC" (experimental carbine) as typically seen on Model 1886s. This carbine may have been configured this way circa 1889-1893 in an effort to try to develop a "cavalry length" weapon that could also support the use of a bayonet, as evidenced by experiments with some of the rare Model 1882 carbines that preceded this example. It has the standard Springfield lock markings, breechblock marked "U.S./MODEL/1884", and standard Springfield "V/P/eagle head" proofs along with "A" and "XC" marked on the breech end of the barrel. The barrel is secured by two bands. The left wrist of the stock is marked with a faint boxed script "SWP/1883" (Samuel W. Porter) inspection cartouche. "W/B" and circled "P" are marked on the bottom of the wrist behind the trigger guard. "US" marked buttplate tang. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes a period leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very good, retains 30% of the faded original blue finish and 50% of the original case colors with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina and some scattered minor dings. The front half of the barrel exhibits some abrasive marks and have been browned at some point. The wood is also very good with a few hairline cracks near the buttplate, some scattered minor dings and chips throughout, and a legible cartouche. Mechanically excellent.