It's not very often that we get the opportunity to offer a Civil War era carbine that shows legitimate field-usage and time-in-the-saddle like this one This M1860 Spencer carbine's serial number is in the 34,000 serial range; which, according to serial number date provided by the Springfield Research Service, means it would have likely been issued in August, 1864 - just in time for some of the Union's largest offensives. Just one glance at the stock of this carbine reveals it to be a faithful battle rifle to some Union cavalryman.
Despite its life as a "fightin' iron", this Spencer remains in excellent condition. It's all original from top to bottom and retains a great used, but never abused look. The metal has a great even patina with no rust and only some minor external salt-and-pepper pitting isolated to the last third of the barrel. All the stamps are struck deep and legibly, including the original maker's stamp on top of the receiver
Both stocks match and are free of any cracks chips or other major damage. The original inspectors cartouche is visible behind the saddle bar, indicating that the stocks haven't been sanded or refinished.
The magazine tube is in good condition and can be removed from the butt stock easily. The spring is present and functional.
The lock is in excellent condition with a wonderfully smooth action which holds solid on both full and half cock. The action of the breech block is smooth and positive with all parts present and accounted for with no rust, pitting or damage. The saddle bar and ring are intact.
The original six groove bore is in good condition and features deep crisp rifling and only some minor light rust and scattered pitting which looks like it would clean up with minimal effort. Both the front and rear sight are intact and unmodified.
The carbine is an excellent example of the first repeater ever issued to US troops. It's early serial number and cavalry sling hook-worn stock have a great story to tell. Don't wait on this one!
