Model
1888 round rod bayonet rifles were Springfield's last
attempt at producing a trapdoor rifle with a working and
reliable bayonet retention mechanism. Over 60,000 were
produced between 1890 and 1893, when trapdoor production
came to an end.
These arms are often found in nearly-new condition and
are highly desirable. They may be found with an
assortment of front sight covers, but the arm remained
unchanged during its short production period.
Model 1884 and Model 1888 rifles saw service in the
Spanish American War. The regular army was issued the new
Krag rifles and the guard units received the trapdoor.
There are a number of stereopticon pictures that show
guard units armed with a mix of 1884 and 1888 rifles.
|
|
