Springfield model 1873
| Springfield Model 1873 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Breech-loading rifle |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1873–1903 |
| Used by | |
| Wars | |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Erskine S. Allin |
| Designed | 1872–1873 |
| Manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| Produced | 1873–1884 |
| No. built | 567,882 |
| Variants |
|
| Specifications | |
| Length | 52 in (1,300 mm) |
| Barrel length | 32.5 in (830 mm) |
| Cartridge | 1873 Loading .45-70-405 (19,000 psi), 1884 loading 45-70-500 (25,000 psi)) |
| Caliber | .45 in (11.43 mm) |
| Action | Trapdoor |
| Rate of fire | 12-13 rounds per minute, up to 25 rounds per minute have been recorded in ordnance department tests |
| Muzzle velocity | 1,350 feet per second (410 m/s) |
| Maximum firing range | 2,500 yards (2,300 m) |
| Feed system | Breech-loading |
| Sights | Open sights |
The Springfield Model 1873 was a trapdoor breechblock service rifle produced by the Springfield Armory for the United States military. It was the first standard-issue breech-loading rifle adopted by the United States Army (although the Springfield Model 1866 had seen limited issue to troops along the Bozeman Trail in 1867). The rifle, in both full-length and carbine versions, was widely used in subsequent battles against Native Americans.
The Model 1873 was the fifth variation of the Erskine S. Allin trapdoor breechblock design. The infantry rifle model featured a 325⁄8-inch (829 mm) barrel, while the cavalry carbine used a 22-inch (560 mm) barrel. It was superseded by an improved model, the Springfield Model 1884, also in .45-70 caliber.