Springfield Armory Conversion of a M1865 Spencer Carbine

Springfield Armory Conversion of a M1865 Spencer Carbine.

Before the end of the war, the need for standardization with carbine cartridges was made a priority. The Ordnance Department had Spencer Repeating Arms Co. changed the chamber to accept the .50 caliber cartridge.  Spencer delivered “hybrid” Model 1865 carbines that utilized the Model 1860 receivers, and cut-down barrels from 22 to 20 inches in length, which were stamped “1865” behind the rear sight.  However, Spencer began shipping the carbines of the new, and old patterns. To make sure that the ammunition was issued correctly, those chambered for .50 caliber had to be designated on the barrel “1865,” as Spencer was still sending carbines in the old .52 caliber. The .50 caliber cartridge could be used in the old pattern arms but velocity was reduced and trajectory poor.

This carbine utilizes the old receiver M1860, but has the 20 inch barrel, and marked 1865. The rear sight is the new pattern that was issued on Models 1865, 67 and New Model carbines and rifles. Forearm barrel band is the old pattern without sling swivel.  The Stabler Cut-off were placed on these new modified 1860 carbines at Springfield, and thus the work would have been overseen by Lucien c. Allin, the Foreman in charge of repairs, and his cartouche is stamped in the proper place behind the saddle ring bar plate.

This carbine serial number 7790, is in very good -fine condition, with some color remaining on the receiver, and breech block, and other cased parts mixing with aged gray/ plum brown. The barrel has the same mixing with age colors, and the bore is very good.   Has cartouches for DAP and ECW and are  strong behind the side plate/ ring bar. The buttstock and forend are nice with typical small dings, scratching, certainly nothing deep. Mechanics are very good, marking visable.

These Civil War / Indian War Spencers don’t get their due, as they saw hard service with troops and then were issued out to teamsters, and Indian Scouts. Private gun companies bought these in the beginning of the 1870s and sold them to the soldier turned farmer and rancher going west at this time.

A great old gun.