3297

U.S. Spencer Model 1865 Lever Action Repeater, Scarce Springfield Armory Infantry Rifle Conversion

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 3,750.00 USD
U.S. Spencer Model 1865 Lever Action Repeater, Scarce Springfield Armory Infantry Rifle Conversion
Originally produced by the Spencer Rifle Company on government contract, this is one of approximately 1100 that were converted by Springfield Armory into an infantry rifle, circa 1871-1874. Bayonet lug front and Model 1868 folding ladder rear sights on the Springfield barrel, which has 3-groove rifling and has been numbered to match the receiver. The receiver has the three-line Spencer address on top, with a "&" stamped on top of the breechblock, saddle ring bar on the left side and the Stabler cutoff ahead of the trigger. Smooth straight wrist stock, with metal forearm tip, 2 barrel bands secured with band springs, ramrod with ribbed head, sling swivels and casehardened buttplate. Also included with the rifle is an extra, unmarked breechblock.
BBL: 32 1/2 inch
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 50 RF
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 21956
Condition: Fine as partially refinished, with 65% of the arsenal blue finish, showing sections of brown patina and some light scratches and dings. A small amount of pitting is visible on the receiver, along with moderate scratches. Over 90% of the original vivid case color remains. Stock is very good as lightly sanded and re-oiled, with some mild pressure dents. A small crack is present in the magazine tube, otherwise mechanically excellent. This is a fine example of a scarce post-Civil War Springfield Armory, Rifle-Musket variation Spencer.