Thanks to Tom for getting me here from TrapdoorCollector.com
My post there was:
My rifle was purchased as an original 1873 Trapdoor. It was a really good price, so I am not disappointed even if it is an inconsistent reproduction. Comparing the rifle to one that I KNOW is an original there are the following differences muzzle to butt Cleaning rod head is a smooth cylinder with patch slot and includes a cavity on the tip. It is held in the rifle by a spring in the stock. There is no locking grove on the shaft. Single 1 5/8 swivel on the first band. Serial number on lock work marked 1873 seems to be ?156 Hammer plate is beveled and marked 1863 behind the hammer. All engraving seems to have be painted. Trigger guard seems to be heavier than the example, with a smooth trigger. Trigger breaks at about 4 lb. What is it?
Questions about the sights, (blade, ladder (pic)) and Caliber (45/70)
Further information. The paint on the hammer plate seems to be gold.
20210331_132622[1].jpgswivel[1].jpgsight[1].jpgsight[1].jpghammer_plate[1].jpg