Breechldrs Newbie Spencer Inquiry

[kcordell]

Here is a Spencer, belonged to my dad. He replaced the head so he could fire center fire Spencer rounds. I still have the original. I have no history on it other than that I know it shoots quite well. Can any of the experts shed any light on it's history? Again, I am on a severe learning curve so anything is appreciated.

 

[Saint Jude]

I can't help you with your question, but I do want to welcome you to the forums!

 

[UCVRelics]

What you have is a very nice model 1860 Spencer with the 1865 conversions and should have a Stabler cutoff device which I believe I see peeking out in front of the trigger. It is not listed in the SRS and I believe the 5th Cav is a post war marking. Below is a great link that will help you out.

Ridgeway Reference Library, Civil War plates and buckles

 

[Seduzal]

Thanks for sharing this awesome Spencer. Enjoyed it.

 

[bobinwmass]

Nice looking carbine. But I am confused by the M 1865 markings on the barrel as I thought that indicated the Model 1865. However the receiver markings do indicate a Model 1860.

 

[James N.]

Welcome to the forums from the host of the Stonewall Jackson Forum and another firearms enthusiast!

 

[kcordell]

Nice looking carbine. But I am confused by the M 1865 markings on the barrel as I thought that indicated the Model 1865. However the receiver markings do indicate a Model 1860.

Again I am a novice on Civil War era items but I read the link posted earlier and from the read, it appears it is a Breechloader, Spencer seven shot rimfire carbine, Model 1860, with 1865 modifications, Stabler cutoff using 56/52 cartridge, cavalry model fitted with saddle riding bar, .52cal. ... In short, a very interesting read...thanks!

 

[kcordell]

What you have is a very nice model 1860 Spencer with the 1865 conversions and should have a Stabler cutoff device which I believe I see peeking out in front of the trigger. It is not listed in the SRS and I believe the 5th Cav is a post war marking. Below is a great link that will help you out.

Ridgeway Reference Library, Civil War plates and buckles

Thanks for your insight. As I am new here and Civil war arms (inherited a few cool items from my dad) sorry if I ask newbie questions but what is SRS? Also are you saying the post war mark is just that made post war or are you saying someone faked it? Again, many thanks for helping me out with your knowledge.

 

[bobinwmass]

I do think this is actually a model 1865 as made by Spencer, not the Burnside contract. Same markings as the 1860 on top of frame but M1865 on barrel. Serial numbers went up to around 23000. Best way to tell them apart is the 65 had a shorter 20 inch barrel