This is an exceptional example of a rare U.S. Springfield Model 1880 "triangular" ram-rod bayonet rifle. These were produced between the serial numbers of 154,000-158,000, circa 1880/81 with this example being numbered "154466". This series of rifle was similar to the Model 1879 and was the first to use the experimental sliding bayonet, of which 1,000 were produced. This configuration ultimately proved to be another failed Ordnance design with almost all being converted back into the standard rifle configuration. These rifles are similar to the model 1879 and have the wider/thicker receiver with improved gas ports, Model 1879 rear sight, that is adjustable for both elevation and windage, correctly stamped with a letter "R" for rifle on the side of the base and top of the rear sight leaf. The lock plate is marked with the Springfield Armory Eagle/Shield motif and "U.S./SPRINGFIELD" and is fitted with the three-click tumbler. The barrel has the larger, "V/P/eagle head/P" proofs and the low arched breechblock marked "U.S./MODEL/1873". The rifle is fitted with two barrel bands that are correctly marked with the letter "U" on the right side, the two piece trigger plate and trigger guard bow with the smooth trigger. It has its original stock that has a single script "P" proof in the pistol grip area with a boxed, "SWP/1881" cartouche on the left side. It is fitted with a standard steel buttplate with "U.S." stamped on the heel.

Very fine overall with 85% plus of the original blue finish showing some minor thinning on the barrel bands, side of the hammer and lock plate with some minor thinning of the blue on top of the barrel and underside of the trigger guard bow. The breech block retains 95% original case colors with some very minor fading on the firing pin tunnel. The stock is also excellent overall with a nice dark brown oil finished color overall. The cartouche and firing proof are both clear and sharp. A very difficult rifle to fine in this high totally original condition as most were reconverted to standard rifles.