Model 1870 Rolling Block U.S. Navy/USMC

Model 1870 Rolling Block U.S. Navy Rifle, (Caliber 50/70 Government), made by Springfield Armory on royalty agreement with Remington Arms Co. from 1870 to 1871. Sold to the Navy Department for use by the USMC. Total number produced 22,013. This piece originally had a 32-5/8” barrel, however it has been shortened to 25”. Two-piece walnut stock; front secured by two barrel bands. Sights are slide leaf rear sight and blade front sight. Original bayonet lug was removed when the barrel was shortened. Sling swivels on forward band and on front trigger guard. Right frame marking American eagle above USN/SPRINGFIELD/1870. Tang marking reads: REMINGTONS PATENT PAT. MAY 3RD NOV 15TH 1864 APRIL 17TH 1868. The Navy Department ordered these arms in 1870, but the first 10,000 were rejected due to an improper placement of the rear sight only ½” forward of the receiver, and were commercially sold. This rifle has the accepted 3-1/8” spacing, and after its service life was sold to France for use in the Franco Prussian War. Only a few made it back to this country and most of them have been modified. This rifle shows use but is in good condition with some minor pitting on the receiver and exterior of the barrel, its bore is remarkably bright with sharp rifling and only one small dark spot that does not effect accuracy. Recently professionally restored to exacting standards with original replacement parts, and original techniques. (The front sight, rear slide leaf, and ramrod are modern reproductions) The muzzle has been re-crowned and has resulted in an excellent shooting specimen with great balance and handling. Shoots consistently groups less than 3” at 100 yards with cleaning between shots, and within 12” at 200 yards. This rifle would make a great piece for a USN/USMC collector.