Spencer Carbine Researc

[jimexcelcs]

Hello,

I inherited a Spencer Carbine rifle from my father when he passed away many years ago. Serial number is 42760. It has a large "V" carved into the side of the butt.

I guess it looks pretty darn good for a rifle that has obviously seen some action. The metal is a little pitted, the wood is almost black on color - I guess from age. The action works but the cock doesn't "cock" - however, perhaps it does not cock until a bullet is loaded? I don't know.

Might anyone be able to direct me to where I might dig up some history on this weapon and ascertain the value?

 

[OFT]

I don't know that much about the Spencer but I'm sure that they have to be manually cocked. Just working the lever will not cock the hammer. I believe that you are supposed to put the hammer on half cock, then work the lever to load a round and then place the hammer on full cock to fire.

Sorry I can't offer any more info.

 

[murdoc rose]

1864?1863? I'm sure someone can tell you exactly when it was made as for cocking you racked the lever then set the hammer. It may not function given its age. Some of them where converted to center fire and some of them may not have survived due to this modification. When you say the "cock" do you mean the hammer inst locking in place or do you mean it doesn't react with the trigger. Pics would be nice.

 

[jimexcelcs]

" When you say the "cock" do you mean the hammer inst locking in place or do you mean it doesn't react with the trigger. Pics would be nice."

I mean that it does not lock in place. It takes a fair amount of force to cock it. You can sort of "feel" the point where it could be half-cocked but if you pull it all the way back, it does not "stick."


Attached is a pic. I'll gladly supply more if necessary. Thanks, all, for the prompt replies. This is fun stuff no matter if I end up selling it or not.

 

[Jim K]

There could be several reasons for the hammer not staying cocked, including a broken or missing sear, broken or missing sear spring, notches broken or worn off hammer, dirt or grease interfering with the sear, etc.

Many parts for the Spencer are available from www.ssfirearms.com who did have quite a few original parts.

Jim

 

[jimexcelcs]

Thanks, Jim. I'd only repair it if doing so will significantly increase the value. Do you have any opinion on that?

 

[KodiakBeer]

Repairing it will significantly increase the value. Don't refinish the stock or anything cosmetic, but replacing springs or whatever to make it functional will make it more valuable.

 

[jimexcelcs]

Thanks, Kodiak!