PEDERSOLI SPRINGFIELD TRAPDOOR CARB 45-70 22

The Pedersoli Springfield Trapdoor carbine in .45-70 is a faithful reproduction of the cavalry-issue rifle that saw service through the late 19th century. Built by IFG-NA LLC under the Pedersoli name, this 22-inch barreled carbine captures the historical character of the original while delivering the robust performance shooters expect from a trapdoor action. Whether you're a black powder cartridge enthusiast, a living history participant, or someone drawn to classic American martial rifles, the Springfield Trapdoor carbine offers authentic handling and reliable operation in a compact, practical package.

The 22-inch barrel strikes a balance between pointability and ballistic efficiency, making this carbine equally at home in the saddle or at the range. The .45-70 cartridge—one of the most versatile rifle rounds ever developed—delivers substantial power whether you're shooting period-correct ammunition or modern loads. Pedersoli's attention to historical detail means you get the proper sight picture and manual of arms the original cavalry trooper knew, yet the manufacturing standards ensure consistent, dependable shooting.

The adjustable rear sight allows you to dial in your load and distance, while the fixed front sight maintains the authentic military profile. With a weight of 7.7 pounds and overall length of 41 5/16 inches, the carbine remains handy without feeling whippy. The six-groove rifling with a 1:18 twist rate is optimized for the ballistics of the .45-70, steadying the heavy cast bullets these rifles were designed to shoot.

This is a rifle for shooters who understand their ammunition and respect mechanical simplicity. The trapdoor action is intuitive and fast once you're familiar with it, and there's something deeply satisfying about the solid clang of the breech block closing on a fresh round. It's a connection to American rifle heritage that modern production can't quite replicate.

Key Features

• .45-70 Government caliber—versatile, powerful, and still widely available
• 22-inch barrel for quick handling and balanced sight radius
• Adjustable rear sight for range adjustment and load tuning
• Fixed front sight with authentic military profile
• Six-groove rifling, 1:18 twist—optimized for .45-70 ballistics
• 7.7-pound weight and 41 5/16-inch overall length for practical carry and control
• Faithful cavalry carbine reproduction built to modern production standards

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What ammunition should I shoot in a Springfield Trapdoor .45-70?

The .45-70 is one of the most flexible rifle cartridges available. Original trapdoor rifles were designed for period-correct black powder loads, but modern smokeless ammunition is widely available and reliable in these firearms. Always verify ammunition compatibility with your specific rifle and follow manufacturer guidance. Many shooters reload for the cartridge to fine-tune performance or to shoot lighter, black-powder-type loads that honor the rifle's heritage.

Is this carbine a good choice for black powder cartridge shooting?

Yes. The Springfield Trapdoor is iconic in the black powder cartridge community. The adjustable rear sight and historical accuracy of Pedersoli's reproduction make it well-suited to BPCE match competition and recreational black powder cartridge shooting. Its compact 22-inch barrel and manageable weight also make it practical for field use.

What's the difference between this carbine and a full-length Springfield Trapdoor rifle?

The primary difference is barrel length—this carbine has a 22-inch barrel and 41 5/16-inch overall length, compared to longer rifle versions. The carbine was the cavalry version, designed for soldiers mounted or in close quarters. The shorter profile and lighter weight make it quicker to handle, though you trade some sight radius and muzzle velocity for that portability.

Does this come with ammunition or cleaning supplies?

Check with Bosque Outdoors for what's included with your purchase. The rifle itself comes as described; ammunition and accessories are typically ordered separately.