Got a decision to make between two rifles

[Murphinator]

About two months ago maybe three I posted about wanting to get a Trapdoor Springfield. I have been doing work for a local farmer and he asked me to take a look at his gun collection cause he is gonna start thinning his herd so its less of a burden for his children and grandchildren and they can have the money from the sales. However, he wants to give me a rifle of my choosing out of a selection he set aside he figured he wouldnt get any money for. The two rifles I picked out were a Trapdoor Springfield Rifle Model 1877 I believe and a Remington Rolling Block. Both are chambered in .45 Government and they are both military firearms both having bayonet lugs and U.S. Eagles on them. The Rolling block is an 1875 or 1876 based on the numbers marked on it. It was probably a militia firearm I assume. Both retain about 60-80% of their metal finish and they both work. I can't decide on which rifle to choose. What are the pros and cons of each. Their barrels are 32" on the Trapdoor and 34" on the Rolling Block. I would like to use whatever rifle I choose for target shooting and hunting.

[gunther]

See what the bores look like. That's the part that make using them fun. Also check the firing pin on the trapdoor. They can break, but are easily and cheaply replaceable. If your farmer has any ammunition or fired cases, (45-70) get a package deal. Those shells are hard to find just now. And save the brass! Round up some large rifle primers, and black powder, and some 45 caliber maxi-balls.

[dverna]

I would get the Remington RB. Assuming the barrel is decent. I think it is a stronger action and may be more versatile.

[hawkenhunter50]

Do more work for him and get them both.

[elk hunter]

Trapdoors are still quite common. Unaltered rolling blocks in 45-70 in military dress are not. If it were me I'd get the rolling block and then buy the trapdoor if I could.

[HWooldridge]

As a shooter, I would rather have the Remington - it's a more robust action and very simple to work on; but as mentioned above, the one having the better bore condition might be the offsetting factor.

[marlinman93]

Without hesitation I'd get the Rolling Block. They're a rare rifle in original .45-70 chambering, and worth more.

[Winger Ed.]

Keep working.

It's a farm,,,, there's always plenty to do.
Try to work off getting both.

[eastbank]

rolling block may be a 50-70.

[JoeJames]

I had an 1879 type trapdoor cadet rifle. Finally decided to sell it. May be a location issue but it took a long time to sell on consignment at my local gun shop. Sold it for $750 - it was in good shape with a very good bore. A cousin sold another 1879 trapdoor cadet recently for the same amount. At least in my area they sell slowly and have not increased much in value. I have no idea about the value on RB's.

[popper]

rolling block
re-barrel if needed.

[BLAHUT]

For me the rolling block. 45/70 - 50/70 perfect for competition, I shoot my 45/70 out to 1000 yds, Very accurate. Re-barrel in future if needed?

[marlinman93]

rolling block
re-barrel if needed.

Rebarrel it, and it wont be worth half of it's current value, and you'll have another $700 in it.

[stubshaft]

Gotta go with the majority and say that the Rolling Block would be my choice.

[elmacgyver0]

You have stated he is getting rid of them.
Take your pick, then buy the other, if you don't end up with both you will regret it later.

[Murphinator]

Got an update for everyone. The Rolling Block is actually chambered in .50-70 Government and the Trapdoor is chambered in .45 Gov as usual. He doesnt have any BP loaded .45 brass but he has 40 .50-70 shells he bought from Huntington's and he has 40 .45 Gov Shells and reloading dies for both.

[FrankJD]

Remington rollers rule, period ... IMHO and IME they are a much better firearm than most any Springfield trap door for accuracy, operation, and maintenance. YMMV.

[Edward]

Remington rollers rule, period ... IMHO and IME they are a much better firearm than most any Springfield trap door for accuracy, operation, and maintenance. YMMV.

And Frank knows I've seen him shoot them !!!!!!!!!!!!!!/Ed

[indian joe]

Do more work for him and get them both.

this!!!!!

[indian joe]

You have stated he is getting rid of them.
Take your pick, then buy the other, if you don't end up with both you will regret it later.

yes!!!

[marlinman93]

I'd still take the Rolling Block, but as others have said I'd try to buy both if the prices are right.