Spencer information wanted - please,

[minerotago]

Today in a gun shop I saw a beaten up Spencer - 6 groove rifling I think. (Not three) Serial number 39616. Made by Spencer.22 inch barrel.
I have to assume that it is a Model 1860.
Does anyone have any records for this serial number. The barrel serial numbers the receiver. It is not entirely original. It has the original magazine tube but a 'different fore end' - the band is missing if it ever had one. It has also been fitted with a rather large and ugly  replacement non Spencer hammer.
On the Barrel it has stamped ahead of the rear sights two letters and a number R R 8 (The first 'R' is a large capital and the second 'R' is about three quarters the size of the first one but still a capital)

Any information regarding Model 1860 Spencer, number 39616, stamped R R 8 on the barrel would be much appreciated.

[Two Flints]

Hi minerotago ,

Any photos to go along with your description?  Can't comment on the changes unless you have photos of the Spencer Carbine you are describing.

But, I checked on your serial # ONLY - closest I have to your #39616 is serial #39611, a Spencer Carbine issued to Company L, 2nd New York Volunteer Cavalry in March, 1865.

Hope this helps.

Two Flints

[minerotago]

Thanks Two Flints - I knew you would come to the fore!

I shall try to get photos of it - it is in a local gunshop. His father bought it for $350 back at a gun auction in 1995. I was at the auction but bought a Warners Patent Carbine but clearly remember the Spencer being sold.

I have tentatively suggested that I might be prepared to pay $1000 NZ ($820US) for it and then try to source a fore end and hammer, Barrel band and band retaining spring.

[Two Flints]

minerotago,

If you can get the photos . . . nice sharp ones, with good exposure, of the receiver especially, top, sides, and bottom areas with the action open and closed . . . and of any changes made to the carbine as you determine.

Send the photos to me at fsgrand2@fairpoint.net for posting or post them yourself . . . just don't post those "itty bitty" thumbnail photos

Two Flints