I found a model 1884 Springfield Trapdoor today at an antique shop. Is anybody here smart on them? I think it is in good condition and parts look correct to me, the seller is asking $1000 the shop can do 10% off and was trying to contact the owner but didn't reach him they said that I could make an offer.

Here are some pics it's the one in the middle it also comes with a bayonet
SN: 236388
barrel markings
breechblock
The bore looked bright I saw rifling it didn't look very deep though. I don't know how it's supposed to look on this model rifle. The stock and bluing looks good to me. The breech mechanism and the lock-work all seem function correctly. Does anyone know what these are valued at and selling for now. I have a short time to act on this if I decide to buy it, any guidance or help would be most appreciated.


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Just ignore my PM reply. I didn't see this post before I got your PM.

I am not a trapdoor expert but checking the bore and operation of the locking mechanism and trigger pull/hammer fall would be prudent. Look for pitting and corrosion both in the barrel and inside the mechanism as this is a black powder rifle and must be kept clean to prevent rust. If you can take off the stock it might be helpful to find rust/corrosion. Also, it is important for value retention that the stock be original, unsanded with crisp clear cartouches. If the stock has been touched in any way then value should be less.

My 34th Edition of the Blue Book from 2013 shows approximately 232,000 made between 1885-1890. So yours is a late model. It should have 2 barrel bands which appears as correct. It shows value as the following:

100%=$2250, 98%=$1850, 95%=$1450, 90%=$975, 80%=$725, 70%=$625, 60%=$525

Carbine values are considerably more. From the photos it does not appear to be a carbine.

I hope this helps you make an informed decision.

You can call if you need more help.

A quick search on Dixie Gun Works shows lots of available parts as well.

Thanks Inspector.

Here's a paper listing the other items in the case,

Thanks Inspector.

Here's a paper listing the other items in the case,

Thanks Dustoff,

I replied to your PM.

Carbine prices were about twice the normal trapdoor. If you want the carbine prices, let me know.

Unfortunately trapdoors are a little earlier than I wanted to collect. Otherwise I might be a player at the right price.

Good luck and let us know what you decide to do.

Nice find!!!

A friend of mine has one, we loaded with trailboss and lead, but it wasn't too accurate, however, very fun to shoot.  It is not in as good condition as yours. 

I was thinking the bore was too worn for the under pressure loads to have the bullet effectively engage the rifling?   Didn't they also use paper patched bullets in some of these?

Wow!  Very nice. CW is one of the periods I do not have a rifle yet for club shoots.  Good luck with this!

Hello all thanks for all of you who PM'ed and replied here. I only had a short amount of time to work with if I were to have purchased the rifle and due to my circumstances I decided not to get it.

Wow!  Very nice. CW is one of the periods I do not have a rifle yet for club shoots.  Good luck with this!

What club to you shoot with? I was able to pick up a SVT-40 earlier this year!