1873 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle .45-70

Published on July 30, 2024
Duration: 19:01

This video provides an expert-level overview of the 1873 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle in .45-70 Government, presented by firearms expert Hickok45. It covers the historical context of its development, technical specifications, the .45-70 cartridge, and a comparison between the rifle and carbine variants. The presentation highlights the rifle's historical significance and its place in firearms collecting, offering insights into its operation and performance with both modern and period-appropriate ammunition.

Quick Summary

The 1873 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle, chambered in .45-70 Government, was a key U.S. military firearm from 1873 to the early 1890s. It featured a breech-loading mechanism developed by Erskine S. Allin. While the standard infantry rifle has a 32-inch barrel, a shorter 22-inch carbine variant exists for cavalry. Use "Trapdoor safe" ammunition for safe operation.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Sponsors
  2. 01:15Initial Shooting and Identification
  3. 03:10Historical Context
  4. 05:07Collectability and Condition
  5. 08:20The .45-70 Cartridge
  6. 09:38Rifle vs. Carbine Comparison
  7. 11:15Historical Performance Issues
  8. 12:24Black Powder Demonstration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of the 1873 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle?

The 1873 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle, designed by Erskine S. Allin, was a pivotal firearm that converted muzzle-loading muskets into breech-loaders. It served as the standard U.S. military infantry rifle from 1873 until the early 1890s, marking a significant advancement in firearm technology for its time.

What are the key differences between the 1873 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle and Carbine?

The primary difference lies in barrel length: the standard infantry rifle features a 32-inch barrel, while the cavalry carbine is shorter with a 22-inch barrel. This distinction impacts handling and intended use, with the rifle suited for general infantry and the carbine for mounted troops.

What ammunition is recommended for the 1873 Springfield Trapdoor Rifle?

For original 1873 Springfield Trapdoor rifles, it is crucial to use ammunition specifically designated as "Trapdoor safe," such as modern loads from Steinel. These are designed to handle the pressures and chamber dimensions safely, avoiding issues with older or non-standard cartridges.

How does the .45-70 Government cartridge perform?

The .45-70 Government cartridge, in its original configuration, typically used a 405-grain lead bullet with 70 grains of black powder. This provided substantial power for the era, suitable for military applications and hunting.

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