4334 RARE EXPERIMENTAL SPRINGFIELD ARMORY TRAPDOOR

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This item SOLD at 2022 Nov 07 @ 15:17UTC-04:00 : AST/EDT
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 5,000.00 USD
Estimated at 10,000.00 - 20,000.00 USD

PISTOL, EX LOCKE COLLECTION.
Cal. 50-70. S# 24579. General Wm. Tecumseh Sherman saw potential in this massive pistol made to his design: “I wish you also cause to be prepared as soon as convenient prior to March 1, 1870, a carbine and single barreled pistol with the same of similar breech block as is now used in the Springfield musket, and capable of using the same identical cartridge. I do not suppose one can literally use a musket cartridge in the carbine and pistol, but each could use the same caliber, the same copper case, the powder alone varying in quantity, but the strength of parts should be adjusted so that in emergencies the carbine and pistol could use the musket cartridge.". A small quantity made for trials. This example is pictured & described on page 257 of the 1973 text “The William M. Locke Collection”, “Single shot pistol made from 1869 Trapdoor Springfield rifle, 9” round barrel. Caliber 50/70, serial number 24579. Lock plate marked in front of cock with eagle & “U. S. SPRINGFIELD” behind cock “1863””. CONDITION: very good overall, stock well fit and sound with minor cosmetic blemishes, metal mottled gray overall, light pitting, traces of case color on breech & tang. (01-21490/JS). $10,000-20,000.