A rare, limited production, U.S. Springfield Model 1870 Carbine, only 341 of these carbines were manufactured by Springfield Armory in 1871. Later in 1871, the 1st-9th Cavalry Regiments were issued between 25 and 30 Model 1870 Carbines for troop trials. Most Model 1870 Carbines had a 'National Armory Bright' finish on all of the components and were fitted with an oil-finished walnut stock. The stock has the 'long-wrist/short-comb' configuration used on early Model 1873 Carbines and is not drilled for a butt trap. A sling bar and ring are located on the left stock flat. The Model 1868 Pattern, folding leaf rear sight is mounted just in front of the receiver and folds towards the carbine breech. The 'high arch' pattern breechblock is marked "1870" above and eagle head, crossed arrows and "U.S.". The carbines were fitted with a Model 1864 Springfield Rifle/Musket lock plate; the lock on this example is dated "1864" behind the hammer. The hammer has shield-shaped knurling on the spur. The Eagle and Shield motif followed by "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" in two-lines are located in front of the hammer. The buttplate is marked "U.S." in front of the upper buttplate screw. The carbine is, correctly, not serial numbered. A very faint final inspection mark with two script initials in an oval is visible on the left stock flat.
Very good. The carbine has been lightly cleaned (many years ago). The metal surfaces are mostly smooth with an attractive crisp silver-gray patina overall. There are some scattered age spots on the breechblock, hammer, lock plate, trigger guard and buttplate. The stock has been cleaned and is in good condition. The edges are worn from handling and there are scattered, minor dents and scratches on the butt and forearm. The markings on the breechblock and lock plate are clear. The lock is tight and functions well. This is a very rare carbine that is missing from most collections.
There are currently no customer product questions on this lot