1873 Allin Springfield Trapdoor.pdf - Gwmlc.org.nz
1873 Allin Springfield Trapdoor.pdf - Gwmlc.org.nz
1873 Allin Springfield Trapdoor.pdf - Gwmlc.org.nz
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M<strong>1873</strong> to M1888 US <strong>Springfield</strong>:(This set of photos courtesy of M. Kerrigan)GENERALLY: For the history and development of the basic design of this rifle, pleasesee the commentary on the M1865-1868 US <strong>Springfield</strong> (.50-70 Govt.)In 1872 trials were held to determine a "modern" new production arm to replace theobsolescent .50 cal rifle then in use. Repeaters not having yet been shown to be effective,it's not surprising that the military stayed with a basic action design considered "tried andtrue."In <strong>1873</strong> a "new" rifle was produced. Caliber was reduced to .45 and numerous smallchanges made, but the overall design concept remained that adopted in eight years ealier.During the next 15 years, this standard service arm underwent many minor revisionsculminating in the M1888. This model incorporated a unique bayonet which also servedas a cleaning rod and was carried full time and retracted under the barrel except in use.This design innovation was driven by financial and production considerations as a newsmokeless repeater was in the works and, the supply of Civil War bayonets having finallybeen exhausted, this provided an economical substitute.PHOTO: The rifle shown is a M1888 <strong>Springfield</strong>DISTINGUISHING CHARECTERISTICS: This rifle is fitted with a Buffington rearsight and "ramrod" bayonet. The sight is graduated to 2,000 yards incorporating a longrange slide and an azmiuth knob which traverses the entire sight.MISC NOTES: The <strong>Springfield</strong> was first fitted with it's "trapdoor" implementcompartment fitted into the buttstock in 1878, being applied to the last of the M<strong>1873</strong>carbines. The M1879 <strong>Springfield</strong> rifle and all subsequent rifles carried the implementcompartment.
The famed "Ramrod Bayonet. For additional photos see:M1888 US <strong>Springfield</strong> Ramrod Bayonet & Buffington Sight:<strong>Allin</strong> (Berdan) action closed, weapon has been fired. (extractor is partially visible
as the dark blued piece that pivots with the breech block. Rifle's serial number is tothe left of the hammer on the back of the receiver.Hammer at half-cock (safety); Breech block open ready for re-loading.
Inspector's cartouch showing manufacture date of 1892.No major power's arms were retained in service duringthis transition era as long as the US kept the "<strong>Trapdoor</strong> <strong>Springfield</strong>"
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