1865 Model Spencer Repeating Carbine 

Description

1865 Model Spencer Repeating Carbine 

An excellent Civil War-era Model 1865 Spencer Repeating Carbine chambered in .56 Rimfire, retaining a substantial amount of its original factory finish and exhibiting exceptional mechanical integrity. The Spencer was one of the most innovative firearms of the Civil War, providing Union cavalrymen with a significant advantage through its rapid-fire, repeating action.  

This example retains much of its original factory blued and browned finish on the metal surfaces, with only minor wear evident on the lock and buttplate. The carbine features the desirable 18½-inch barrel and Stabler magazine cut-off, an improvement incorporated into late-war production models.  

The receiver is properly marked with the Spencer patent and manufacturing information, reading:  

“Model 1865 Spencer Repeating Rifle, Pat’d March 6, 1860, Manufactured at Providence, R.I. by Burnside Rifle Co.”  

The serial number 18738 is stamped on the top of the frame behind the hammer.  

Notably, the carbine retains all of its principal original components, including the sling swivel, side-mounted sliding ring, rear sight, and magazine spring tube. The walnut stock remains in very good condition overall, exhibiting only a small divot on the left front portion of the forearm. The wood-to-metal fit remains attractive, contributing to the rifle’s overall presentation.  

Mechanically, the carbine remains fully functional. The spring-fed magazine tube operates properly, and both the repeating mechanism and the Stabler cut-off function as intended. Finding a Spencer retaining all of its original components and remaining in proper working order is increasingly difficult, making this example particularly appealing to collectors.  

The Spencer Repeating Carbine played a pivotal role in the latter years of the Civil War and on the western frontier afterward. Its reliability, durability, and revolutionary repeating-fire capability made it one of the most respected military arms of the nineteenth century.  

This is a fine, honest example of a Model 1865 Spencer Carbine, retaining strong original finish, complete original features, and excellent mechanical function. A highly desirable addition to any advanced Civil War arms collection. 

Inventory Number: RIF 376