Description
The Uberti Springfield Trapdoor Army Rifle, .45-70, 32.5″ is a faithful modern reproduction of the iconic 1873 “Trapdoor” service rifle used by the U.S. Army. It’s a single-shot, breech-loading rifle chambered in the powerful .45-70 Government cartridge, built by Uberti with historical accuracy and modern manufacturing standards for the modern shooter and collector.
Key Features
- Authentic reproduction of the 1873 Springfield “Trapdoor” rifle.
- Chambered in the classic and widely available .45-70 Government.
- 32.5-inch barrel provides historical profile and sight radius.
- Case-hardened steel receiver and lockplate for durability and period-correct look.
- Single-shot, breech-loading action with the distinctive hinged “trapdoor” mechanism.
- Walnut stock with steel buttplate.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 32.5 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 52 inches |
| Action | Single-Shot, Breech-Loading (Trapdoor) |
| Sights | Ladder-style Rear, Blade Front |
| Weight | Approx. 9 lbs |
Look, at a price of $1916.65, this isn’t a plinking rifle—it’s a serious piece of history you can shoot. You’re paying for meticulous craftsmanship and a direct link to the post-Civil War era, a time when this rifle’s design was considered advanced military technology. The investment gets you a robust, historically significant firearm that’s ready for the range right out of the box, with no gunsmithing required for standard use. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is built for the history enthusiast who wants to shoot, not just display. It’s for the black powder cartridge silhouette competitor, the hunter who appreciates the challenge of a single shot, or the collector who values shootable authenticity over a wall-hanger. If you’re budget-conscious about history, this offers more bang-for-buck than an original in similar condition, which can cost multiples more. The rifle’s substantial 52-inch overall length demands a certain handling style, but that’s part of its authentic charm.
Practical Pros & Cons
Pros: Unmatched historical authenticity in a new-production firearm. The .45-70 caliber is versatile, available in everything from mild cowboy loads to potent modern hunting ammunition. Uberti’s quality control means you get a reliable shooter built to last. It’s a conversation starter and a tangible piece of American history.
Cons: The single-shot action is slow compared to any repeating rifle. That said, it forces deliberate shooting, which can improve skills. The rifle is long and heavy—not a mountain gun. Ammunition cost for .45-70 is higher than common modern calibers, though reloading can mitigate this. It’s a niche tool, not a general-purpose rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot modern .45-70 ammunition in this reproduction?
A: Yes, but with a major caveat. This rifle is designed for black powder pressure levels or equivalent modern “cowboy action” loads. You must avoid high-pressure modern hunting ammunition (often marked +P). Always use ammunition rated for Trapdoor Springfield or similar vintage rifles to ensure safety and longevity.
Q: How does this Uberti compare to an original 1873 Springfield?
A: The Uberti offers superior metallurgy and consistency from modern manufacturing, making it a safer and often more reliable shooter than a 140-year-old original with unknown history. For the price, you get a firearm you can use without fear of damaging a valuable antique, though it lacks the collector value of an authentic piece.
Q: Is it difficult to find accessories or parts?
A: Not particularly. The design is simple and many internal parts are interchangeable with those from other reputable reproduction sources like Pedersoli. Sling swivels, cleaning rods, and other period-correct accessories are available from specialty suppliers catering to the black powder and historical shooting community.
For the shooter who values heritage and craftsmanship over rapid fire, the Uberti Springfield Trapdoor represents a solid investment in a functional artifact. It bridges the gap between a safe queen and a utilitarian modern rifle. If this balance speaks to you, see its current availability at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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