45-70 trapdoor

[Mblaster]

I have a question. I have a Springfield Original 45-70 trap door, Been in my family for years. I aslo have the original prarie belt that has markings on the inside of it. has a K with two rifles crossed and then the number 13 below that and then further over it has a K, would this by chance be Co. K 13th Calv. soldier 47 ? Some of the bullets in the belt are dated 1886 I think.
Just wondering if any of you guys would have any knowledge of these relics .
Thanks
Mb

 

[Guy Miner]

Can't answer your question, but it sure seems like a neat old piece of history that you've got.

Very cool.

 

[sodak]

I don't know the answer. But these guys may be able to help:

1st Infantry Ft. Randall
trapdoor_1873@yahoo.com

They have been holding trapdoor shoots for 20 years.

 

[tddeangelo]

Is this a trapdoor carbine or full length rifle?

They are not difficult to tell apart....one is MUCH longer than another.

 

[Mblaster]

It is a full length barrell, I'am going to try and take pictures of it and have my wife download the pictures and will post them so you can see it. Will try and get it done before the weekend. I took both pieces to a gun show in Kalispell MT when I lived out there and no one was interested in the history dealers and people just kept coming up and wanting to buy the gun or the belt. Seemed to be alot of intrest in the belt.
Mb

 

[FLAT BOLT]

We've had one in the family forever as well. My dad was the youngest of 8 and when the boys and their dad went hunting the last one out the door got to use the Trap Door! They would load it with .410 shells and after shooting it you would just pull out the brass - paper shells I imagine back in those days. I have seen them at gun shows - none as nice as the one in the closet and they want multiple arms and legs for those things. Great shooting rifle, Wisconsin Whitetails fear a 405 gr bullet! Check the hammer for cracks but shoot that beast!