Originally Posted by
butlersrangers
I've always wondered about the actual issue of the model-1879 Springfield Tool.
They can be obtained in 'bulk', still in original packing!
It was not one of the tools intended to fit in the tool storage-area of the McKeever Cartridge Box?
It is a useful item, but, raises some questions.
(Maybe, a lot of them didn't get handed-out, because the Ordnance Department didn't want soldiers and national guardsmen 'tinkering' and dismounting gun-locks, losing parts, and chipping stocks at the lock-mortise)?
There was not a lot of need to take the well protected and lubricated lock off of a model 1873 Springfield.
There was no reason for a 'non-armorer' to dismantle a 'trap-door' lock.
Back-in-the-day, soldiers just had to properly clean & oil the bore and surfaces that were visible.
Just some wild thoughts!