^Lot 31 Indian Wars-Era Early U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Carbine

Indian Wars-Era Early U.S. Springfield Model 1873 Trapdoor Carbine, #28426, .45-70 Gov't. CF cal., 22" round barrel with usual pinned block-blade front sight and folding ladder-type rear, marked "V/P/(eagle head)" at breech; receiver (flush-fit with barrel) has "high-arch" breechblock with early "Model/1873/(eagle head with arrows)/US" markings at hinge, serial number at tang; flat lockplate markings are mostly obscured, the "Springfield" being legible; standard steel fittings include 2-pc. trigger guard without sling swivel, carbine buttplate marked "US" at tang, 3" sling bar and ring opposite lock, single spring-retained band with swivel. Oil-stained walnut halfstock has correct short 9" comb and no trap in butt. Mfg'd 1874. Condition is good, the barrel showing smooth blue/brown tone, band with much deep blue, lockplate with cleaned pitting, else gray gunmetal with fine markings. Stock is sound and smooth with a few light marks, pleasing grain, color and finish, lacks "ESA" inspector cartouche at left. 3-click action is crisp, bore is bright with mild etching toward muzzle, sharp rifling. Est.: $1,500-$1,800. (Antique)