A Guide to Springfield Models

The United States Armory and Arsenal at Springfield, better known simply as Springfield Armory, was a cornerstone of American firearm manufacturing. Operating from 1777 to 1968, it wasn’t just one of the country’s first factories—it was the leading facility for firearm production.

Although the original Springfield Armory is no longer operational, its legacy lives on. The historic site has been transformed into the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, where visitors can explore an extensive collection of American firearms that tell the story of a nation.

Interestingly, while the original facility is long gone, the name "Springfield Armory" endures. A Texas-based company, L.H. Gun Co., rebranded itself as Springfield Armory, Inc., leveraging the iconic name. However, there’s no formal connection between the original armory and the modern business.

Springfield’s catalog includes a remarkable variety of firearms, primarily focused on rifles, but also featuring notable pistol models. Below is a comprehensive list of the firearms that rolled out of this historic armory.

Muskets

Springfield Armory’s journey began with muskets, marking its entry into the realm of military firearm production. These early models cemented Springfield’s reputation as one of America’s most reliable firearm manufacturers. Here’s a closer look at their evolution:

• Model 1795: Springfield’s first musket and the first musket model produced in the USA, the Model 1795 was chambered in .69 caliber. While not an entirely original design, it drew heavy inspiration from the French Charleville Model 1763/66. Approximately 150,000 units were produced, setting the foundation for Springfield’s prominence.
• Model 1812: Created to address flaws in the Model 1795, this updated musket maintained the .69 caliber and introduced improved functionality. With around 60,000 units produced between 1812 and 1816, it marked Springfield’s commitment to refinement.
• Model 1816: One of Springfield’s most prolific designs, this flintlock musket was produced from 1816 to 1844 with an impressive output of roughly 700,000 units. Available in three variants (Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3), it became the most widely used flintlock musket of its time.
• Model 1822: Often considered a Type 2 variant of the Model 1816, this musket shared the same .69 caliber and design elements. Production was not exclusive to Springfield; Harpers Ferry Armory and other contractors also contributed to its manufacturing.
• Model 1835: Built between 1835 and 1840, this model featured minor updates to barrel length and weight but largely retained the design of the Model 1816. Both Springfield and independent contractors produced it.
• Model 1840: Produced in over 30,000 units, this musket included enhancements like a longer bayonet, a comb on the stock, and a clasp. It was the last flintlock musket produced by Springfield, symbolizing the end of an era.
• Model 1842: A groundbreaking design, the Model 1842 was Springfield’s first musket to feature a percussion lock, transitioning away from flintlocks. Manufactured from 1844 to 1865, it became one of the most popular Springfield muskets.
• Model 1847: This model carried forward the percussion lock system but focused on close-range combat. Lighter and shorter than the Model 1842, it offered enhanced maneuverability, addressing the heft and bulk of its predecessor.

Rifle Muskets

Rifle muskets emerged during the 19th century as a significant improvement over traditional muskets. By replacing smoothbore barrels with rifled ones, these firearms combined the familiar design of muskets with the enhanced accuracy of rifling. Here’s a breakdown of Springfield’s key rifle musket models:

• Model 1855: Manufactured between 1855 and 1860, this .58 caliber rifle musket featured a paper cartridge and was a game-changer during the American Civil War. Approximately 75,000 units were produced, and it gained fame for its compatibility with the Minie ball, a conical bullet that greatly improved range and lethality.
• Model 1861: Introduced as a successor to the Model 1855, this rifle musket retained the use of the Minie ball and became the most widely used shoulder weapon of the Union Army during the Civil War. Known for its accuracy and durability, it was a vital asset on the battlefield.
• Model 1863: Produced between 1863 and 1865, this model maintained the .58 caliber and built upon its predecessors' success. Around 700,000 units were manufactured in two variants, Type 1 and Type 2, reflecting minor design adjustments. Its widespread production underscored its importance in Civil War armaments.

Repeating Rifles

As the demand for faster and more efficient firearms grew, Springfield Armory introduced a series of repeating rifles that allowed multiple shots before reloading. These rifles gained popularity throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, marking a significant evolution in firearm technology. Here are Springfield’s notable models:

• Model 1892–99 (Krag–Jørgensen): Originally designed in Norway, the Krag–Jørgensen was later adapted by Springfield to meet American military standards. Produced between 1892 and 1903, it came in multiple variants, making it a versatile and reliable option for the U.S. military. Its innovative side-loading magazine made it stand out during its time.
• Model 1903: This bolt-action rifle became an icon in the early 20th century. Initially used during the Philippine-American War, it gained global recognition and saw widespread deployment in conflicts worldwide. Its reliability and precision secured its place as one of Springfield’s most celebrated designs.
• Model 1922: Chambered for the .22 LR caliber, this bolt-action rifle featured a five-round magazine and was developed with a focus on training and marksmanship. Several variants with incremental improvements were produced before production ceased during World War II due to material shortages.

Self-Loading Rifles

The 20th century saw the rise of self-loading rifles, offering unparalleled convenience on the battlefield. These rifles harnessed part of the energy from firing a round to automatically chamber the next, significantly increasing efficiency and speed. Springfield contributed to this innovation with two iconic models:

• M1 Garand: A staple of the U.S. Army during World War II and the Korean War, the M1 Garand earned its place in history for its reliability and effectiveness. Nearly 5.5 million units were produced between 1934 and 1957, utilizing various cartridges. Its widespread adoption extended beyond the U.S., finding use in conflicts worldwide and solidifying its reputation as a game-changing firearm.
• M14: Chambered for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge, the M14 introduced selective fire capabilities, making it a versatile successor to the M1 Garand. It became the U.S. Army’s standard rifle, with variants developed for sniper use and competitive shooting. Remarkably, the M14 is still in service in select military forces, a testament to its enduring design and adaptability.

Single-Shot Rifles

Springfield Armory’s reputation was largely built on its exceptional range of single-shot rifles. These firearms, with their innovative designs and reliable performance, became synonymous with the manufacturer’s legacy. Here’s a closer look at Springfield’s most notable single-shot models:

• Model 1865: This upgrade to the Model 1861 featured the Rimfire .58-60-500 cartridge, enhancing military efficiency during the American Civil War. Its ability to fire more rounds in a shorter time made it a game-changer on the battlefield.
• Model 1866: Produced from 1866 to 1868, this rifle saw action in conflicts like the American Indian Wars and the Franco-Prussian War. With just over 50,000 units made across several variants, it stood out for its reliability.
• Model 1868: This model introduced Springfield’s iconic trapdoor breechblock mechanism, designed by Erskine S. Allin. It also featured a carbine variant, expanding its appeal and utility.
• Model 1869: A compact version of the Model 1868, this rifle relied on the .50-70-450 caliber and shared its predecessor’s superior design. With only 3,400 units produced, it’s a rare find for collectors today.
• Model 1870: Based on the Model 1868, this rifle maintained many of its predecessor’s features and also offered a carbine variant. It was chambered for the .50-70-450 caliber and produced from 1870 to 1872.
• Model 1870 Remington-Navy: Manufactured under a royalty agreement with Remington Arms Company, this rifle utilized Remington’s rolling block mechanism. Produced exclusively in 1870, it served a niche military audience.
• Model 1871: Another collaboration with Remington, this rifle was chambered for the .50-70 Government caliber. About 10,000 units were made, reflecting Springfield’s reliance on established designs during this period.
• Model 1873: A groundbreaking firearm, the Model 1873 was Springfield’s first widely adopted breech-loading rifle. With over 500,000 units produced, it became a staple in the Native American Wars and came in multiple variants, including a carbine version.
• Model 1875: Often considered a variant of the Model 1873, this rifle featured a trapdoor action and the .45-70-405 caliber. Its reliable trigger, which could also serve as a hair trigger, added to its precision.
• Model 1877: Building on the Model 1875, this rifle introduced upgrades, most notably an enlarged comb on the stock for improved shooting comfort.
• Model 1880: Limited to just 1,000 units, the Model 1880 used the .45-70-405 caliber and introduced a new bayonet system, making it a prized collectible today.
• Model 1882: This short rifle, sometimes referred to as a carbine, was another iteration of the Model 1873. With only 52 units produced, it’s one of Springfield’s rarest designs.
• Model 1884: Featuring a redesigned rear sight developed by a lieutenant colonel, this model refined the successful Model 1873 and had further improvements introduced in subsequent versions.
• Model 1886: A .45-55-405 trapdoor carbine, this rifle was produced in 1,000 units and marked Springfield’s continued efforts to meet military needs after the Model 1882.
• Model 1888: The last of Springfield’s single-shot rifles to feature the trapdoor breechblock mechanism, this .45-70-405 rifle was also the final single-shot model to serve the U.S. military, closing an important chapter in the armory’s history.

Pistols

While Springfield Armory is best known for its rifles and muskets, a few pistols have managed to stand out in its storied history. Although limited in number, these handguns are recognized for their reliability and performance.

• Springfield 1911 Models: Approximately 100 variations of the Springfield 1911 were produced, each featuring the N.R.A. stamp. These pistols, while manufactured by Springfield, were based on the original M1911 design and made under license. The M1911 itself, also known as the Colt Government or Colt 1911, was designed by the legendary John Browning. Its short recoil and straightforward functionality have made it a mainstay in firearm history since its introduction in 1911.
• Springfield Hellcat: Unlike Springfield’s classic firearms, the Hellcat is a more modern offering, introduced in 2019. Despite carrying the Springfield name, this pistol is actually manufactured in Croatia by HS Produkt and imported by Springfield Armory, Inc. Featuring a compact design with a polymer frame, the Hellcat is geared toward the concealed carry market. However, it’s important to note that Springfield Armory, Inc. has no direct connection to the original Springfield Armory.

Springfield’s name remains legendary in the world of firearms, even though its reputation is primarily built on muskets and rifles. Many of its firearms are now rare collectibles, treasured for their historical significance and craftsmanship. While its contributions to handguns are limited, the Springfield name continues to evoke a sense of heritage and excellence in firearm manufacturing.