Trapdoor carbine ?

[MILRIFLE1]

I want to buy a Trapdoor carbine. I think I found one, but I'm not 100% sure. The serial # is in the 440000 range, I think? Can someone tell me what to look for to make sure it's not a cut down? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Dick Hosmer]

That IS a reasonable number range, but I'd feel more secure in my answer with sharper data. Barrel length, in bore, MUST be 22". Stock MUST have the sling ring bar. Stock must NOT have ANY sort of filler or patch at the front end where the rod groove was filled. Rear sight should be marked "C".

Wear aside, all workmanship (inletting, etc.) should be perfect - SA did not do shoddy work. MOST cut-offs have some less-than arsenal type work somewhere.

You can see several genuine carbines at www.picturetrail.com/sa4570af. #452770 would be the closest, but not all carbines have the 1890 band dispolayed with it. That feature is not a make or break. Hope that helps.

[MILRIFLE1]

Thank you for the info, it doesn't have the saddle bar, so it must be a cut down. Ballpark figuire on an excellent condition cut down? I'll go check it out again tomorrow, and get more info. Very helpful reply, I bought what is probably a put together rifle recently. It has no proofs, or markings on the the barrel, except maybe a U , hard to tell, but good bore and shoots good. Overall nice rifle (shooter), paid $750 for rifle and bayonet with scabard, would like to find a more collectable piece someday.

[John Sukey]

If it is a chop job, the muzzle will be quite thick. If as you say, you already have a rifle, the thickness of the barrel at the muzzle would be a guide.

Hard to put this in a word picture but the wall thickness at the front end should be the same as on a rifle. And Damm it, I can't post pics. Maybe someone else can. Also keep in mind the front sight should be brazed on.
Sold all but one of my 35 trapdoors many years ago. Oh,and the rear sight should have a C on the side.
More, the inspectors cartouche on a carbine is in a different position than on a rifle as the saddle ring bar would otherwise cover it. Going by what I have seen at the last few shows, trapdoor prices have goon INSANE. Local gun store has one for $3000:eek: (they have had it for quite a while;)