U.S. Springfield Model 1888 "Trapdoor" Rod Bayonet Rifle (AL7113)

The Model 1888 U.S. Springfield Trapdoor rod bayonet rifle was the last of the trapdoor rifles. Approx. 65,000 were manufactured between 1889 and 1893. The 32 5/8" barrel of this 13th NY Infantry rifle has an excellent bore wth bright, strong rifling. The barrel has approx. 92% blue with the area behind the rear sight turning brown. It has a Model 1883 front sight cover and Buffington rear sight. The barrel is marked with the VP over eagle followed by a P. There is an A at the center above the chamber. The breech block is correctly marked U.S. over MODEL over 1884. Case colors are visible on the interior with the remainder having turned silver. The lock has the standard U.S. SPRINGFIELD with eagle marking. It retains most of its original blue finish. The bands are blue-brown, the trigger guard is mostly blue, and the buttplate is blue turning brown. The stock is fine with issue dents and dings, no cracks or chips, a good firing proof behind the trigger guard tang, and a strong SWP over 1892 cartouche on the left side. In addition, the left side of the butt is stamped 121 in .25" numerals followed by 13 NY in .75" numerals and letters (rifle 121 of the 13th New York Volunteer Infantry). Painted in red in the same area is C over 21 (Company C, gun 21). The top of the stock just in front of the buttplate tange is stamped C 21 in .25" letters and numerals. A Model 1879 combination tool and broken shell extractor are in the butt trap. The swivels and correct ramrod-bayonet are present. The rifle is equipped with a very good  trapdoor sling with the early long hooks. The action functions correctly. The 13th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment was one of twelve NY infantry regiments that served in the Spanish American War. The Model 1888 was the last of the single shot, large bore black powder U.S. rifles. It is a key piece for any Springfiled or infantry rifle collector. This rifle is even more desirable with tis 13th NY association.