The Model 1888, despite its aged technology, was built in large numbers and was also the most advanced and efficient of all the Springfield trapdoor rifles, and for this reason remains popular among military enthusiasts.

The trapdoor Springfields had originally been produced with reworked bayonets left over from the Civil War.

This model had not been successful, due to problems with the bayonet/cleaning rod retaining mechanism and poor ballistic performance of the weapon due to the heavy forward mounting mechanism.

The Model 1888 was Springfield's last attempt at producing a combined cleaning rod and bayonet design.

During the Spanish–American War, regular army troops were generally issued the new Krag rifles, while guard units were often issued older trapdoor Springfields, typically Model 1884 or Model 1888 rifles.