Reportedly 4,500 of these so called "Transitional Model 1873/1879" carbines were manufactured between 1877-1878. This rifle is manufactured within the correct pre-100000 serial number range with the low-arch breechblock, standard blade front sight, the continuous curve notch and folding ladder rear sight graduated out to 1,200 yards and marked "C", "U.S./MODEL/1873" breechblock marking, no "1873" on the lock, single sling swivel on the barrel band (stacking swivels listed as standard), an "1878" dated cartouche on the stock, and a thick wrist stock with a 10 1/2 inch comb and a compartment in the butt (empty).