>I am doing research on a Springfield Model 1873, single-shot, .45-caliber
>rifle.  The serial number is 6295 or 62959.  Does any one know of good
>references on this topic?  Can I use the serial number to find out the
>year it was made?  Also, what type of wood were Springfield Model 1873s
>made of?  These are just a few of my questions.  Replies would be
>appreciated.  Thanks, B. Hackman.

My local public library boasts the following publications:

"Standard Catalog of Firearms from the publishers of Gun List" by Ned Schwing &
Herbert Houze. Krause Publications, 1995  (Your rifle appears on page 659)

"The Gun Digest Book of Modern Gun Values" 9th ed. By Jack Lewis, DBI Books Inc,
1993

Also try:
"Gun Traders Guide" By Paul Wahl, Stoeger Publishing, 1984

"The NRA Gun Collectors Guide" published by the National Rifle Association

There, I've done your bibliographic search for you. Call your friendly local
librarian and I'm certain these books can be obtained for you at very low (no?)
cost.