Model 1873 trapdoor question

[luke35]

My neighbor is selling a Model 1873 trapdoor in decent shape. However, the stock appears to be a carbine but the barrel is the rifle length of 32 5/8". I have never seen or heard of this and I have looked at many pictures online. Is this common or does he have a frankenstein rifle? If it is a frankenstein what is it worth? SN 216167. What year was it made? I do not believe the stock has been cut down because there is no hole for the cleaning rod. The rifle has been in his family for at least 90 years. His health is failing and he wants the gun to go to a good home. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[diyj98]

The stock has either been cut down or it's a rifle in a carbine stock. If it's the carbine stock you should be able to see where the saddle ring bracket was at one time. I don't have any books here to help you the serial number. The stock not being right really cuts into the value, but to give you a price range, we'd need more info on the metal finish, bore condition, etc. With limited info I'm guessing it's a couple hundred dollar rifle at best.

[Lopper]

it may be a 1884 or 1886 would need pictures tell which model trapdoor

[diyj98]

Originally Posted by Lopper

it may be a 1884 or 1886 would need pictures tell which model trapdoor

The 1886 would have a 24" barrel, so we can rule that one out.

[luke35]

Originally Posted by Lopper

it may be a 1884 or 1886 would need pictures tell which model trapdoor

It is without a doubt a model 1873. All research indicates it is authentic except the stock. Thank you for the info.

[diyj98]

Originally Posted by luke35

It is without a doubt a model 1873. All research indicates it is authentic except the stock. Thank you for the info.

I'm home now and checked my books. That serial number falls into what some sources call the 1879 rifle. According to Flayderman's, the receiver is slightly thicker than the 1873, although there was never "offically" an 1879 model.