Part Number: AAQ-648
The U.S. Model 1868 Breech Loading rifles were a continuation of the process designed by Erskin S. Allin to convert muzzleloading firearms to centerfire cartridge rifles. The 1868 Model model features a shorter barrel, only two barrel bands, a riveted thumbpiece rather than screwed, as well as some other minor improvements over the Model 1866 Allin conversion. This rifle includes a bayonet and scabbard.
Converted from a Model 1863 Springfield muzzleloader the process to line, rifle, and chamber to accept the .50 centerfire, or .50-70 Government cartridge was approved by the procurement board, but it is noted that most 1868 rifles had barrels rolled from steel blanks rather than lining. The barrel is 32-1/2" from the muzzle to the breech. The barrels were issued armoury bright, and this barrel has aged to a silvery gray patina The bore is rifled with three lands and grooves with a 1 in 42" rate of twist. The bore is mostly bright with some scattered dark spots, it appears to be very shootable.
The stock has numerous dents and dings from years of use and the toe shows a great many dents and dings. It was refinished long ago and the cartouche marks on the side panel are no longer visible. The barrel is mounted with two barrel bands secured with band springs. Both bands have a U, with the open end toward the muzzle. The forward band appears to be a replacement from a later model and is missing the lug to fit the forward swivel. The wood on the right hand side of the stock has a chip missing behind the forend cap.
The rounded buttplate comb is stamped U.S.. The breech block is stamped 1870 over a upraised eagle's head over crossed arrows. The barrel is fitted with a folding leaf sight with the ladder found on later production guns. The cleaning rod is a replacement for a later model Trapdoor Springfield. The ramrod has a brighter finish, and the later models had a slightly cupped end on the rod which the 1868 did not feature.
The Springfield lock was has aged to a speckled, etched, gray brown appearance. The lock plate is marked with a 1863 date at the tail. The front of the plate is stamped with a eagle and U.S. over Springfield. This lock functions very well with a strong mainspring, and secure half cock notch.
This rifle includes an original antique trapdoor bayonet with a speckled gray patina finish, and U.S. markings. The triangular blade is 18" long, with a 3" long socket. The metal scabbard includes the leather frog with U.S. marked plate. The leather has some cracking and no longer pivots.