The primary US infantry rifle from 1873 through the Spanish-American War. A conversion of Civil War surplus Springfield rifle-muskets to accept brass centerfire cartridges via a hinged "trapdoor" breech. Used at the Battle of Little Bighorn (1876) where Custer's 7th Cavalry was overwhelmed. The trapdoor mechanism proved slower to operate than lever-action repeaters. Type: Rifle Action: Trapdoor Caliber: .45-70 Government Capacity: 1 Year introduced: 1873, USA Weight: 128 oz Overall length: 44" Status: Discontinued Military use: Yes Intended use: military, hunting