Model 1875 Officer’s Pattern: The Finest Trapdoor Springfield

As the main national armory, Springfield got a number of requests to make specialty rifles for commissioned officers and important dignitaries each year. These were essentially all custom sporting rifles, and the orders were duly filled. In 1875, however, the decision was made to standardize a formal pattern of Officer’s rifle – the Model 1875. This was mechanically a standard Trapdoor Springfield, but made to a very high standard of fit and finish. They were given very nice wood for stocks, and the metal elements were engraved. A 26″ barrel was used, with aftermarket Beach two-position front sight and aperture tang rear sight. Each rifle had a single set trigger, and a detachable pistol grip was added in 1877.

These rifles were made in batches and were available to commissioned officers for $36 (reduced to $27 in 1879). A total of 477 were made between 1875 and 1885, with the last recorded sale taking place in 1900. These are without a doubt the finest Trapdoor Springfields made, and a real treat to handle.