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CAS TOPICS => CAS FAQ => Topic started by: Drogers on August 01, 2013, 05:01:16 PM

Title: Springfield 1878 help needed!
Post by: Drogers on August 01, 2013, 05:01:16 PM

I just purchased a Springfield Model 1878 with a stamp on the stock which includes "1884". The serial number is 262446.  Can anyone help me with the rifle's history? Thanks.

Title: Re: Springfield 1878 help needed!
Post by: Pitspitr on August 02, 2013, 09:03:27 AM

Hi D
The Barracks might be a better place to ask.

It would appear that it's one of the last model '73's made, though I don't have my references in front of me. For more details you might check with Keith Rush at Trapdoors Galore http://www.trapdoors.com/ (http://www.trapdoors.com/) he may be able to do a serial number search for you.

Title: Re: Springfield 1878 help needed!
Post by: Drydock on August 03, 2013, 06:14:24 PM

Your rifle is a model M1873 (the "8" is really a deeply stamped "3")  It was assembled in the 4th quarter of 1884. As has been noted, this would be one of the last with this stamping, the subsequent M1884 is just a few thousand away.  THe stock stamp is an inspectors Cartouche, with the intials of the inspecting officer assigned.   In this case probably SWP, for Samuel W Porter.