The Springfield Armory trapdoor rifles occupy a unique place in American military history. Collectors and historians value original features and battlefield provenance, and very few examples combine factory-era upgrades with clear unit markings the way this one does.
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY 1888 (BUFFALO SOLDIER 25TH INFANTRY)

This specific rifle is a model 1884 categorized as a model 1888 due to period modifications: a serrated trigger, original ramrod bayonet, an authentic Buffington rear sight, and an improved trapdoor. Manufactured in the spring of 1892 and stamped “25th” on the butt plate, it was issued to the Buffalo Soldiers of the 25th Infantry and saw service during the Spanish–American War.
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Feature Breakdown: What makes this rifle notable
The inclusion of an original Buffington rear sight is significant for collectors and shooters alike. Buffington sights offered adjustable elevation and windage for long-range single-shot fire — an important upgrade over earlier fixed sights. The ramrod bayonet, still present on this example, is a rare original accessory that underscores the rifle’s frontline use. The serrated trigger and trapdoor improvements reflect late-19th-century service modifications aimed at reliability and user control.
Caliber and practical considerations
Chambered in .45-70 Govt., this trapdoor is built around a heavy, large-caliber cartridge historically used for hunting and military applications. The .45-70 offers significant stopping power and long-range potential when paired with the Buffington sight. While not a modern tactical cartridge, it remains prized by historical shooters and reenactors for authenticity and performance in single-shot platforms.
Category: Single Shot — this rifle represents the pinnacle of single-shot military rifles of its era, combining original arsenal features and battlefield provenance. The listed price is $2,499.99, reflecting its historical significance, original parts, and documented issuance to the 25th Infantry.
For collectors seeking a documented Buffalo Soldier piece or shooters looking for an original Buffington-equipped Springfield, this example stands out. View product details and pricing to confirm current availability.
Provenance like the “25th” butt plate and spring-1892 manufacture date elevates this Springfield beyond a common collector rifle; it is a tangible link to U.S. Army service in the Philippines and Cuba. Check current availability on the shop page for purchase options and shipping information.
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