Spencer Carbine Serial # Information

[Joe Lansing]

Model 1860 carbine. Serial number 17089. Any information welcomed.
                         
                                                           J.L.

[Two Flints]

Hi Joe,

I checked on your Spencer Carbine serial # 17089.  In my SRS books, I found Spencer carbine serial # 17076 and 17091, both issued to Company K, 11th Michigan Volunteer Cavalry - #17076 issued on November 14, 1864 & #17091 issued on August 17, 1864.

Hope this helps.

Two Flints

[Joe Lansing]

Many thanks!

       J.L.

[Two Flints]

Joe,

Are you joining us?  Or is the check in the mail?

Two Flints

[Joe Lansing]

    I am already with the Winchester '76 boys, but I am currently courting the Spencer. I recently picked up my original '60 carbine with a mind to make a shooter out of it. It has surface rust, but no real pitting. The bore is not too good, and loading for 56-56 is more challenging than for the 56-50, so I sent it out for relining to 56-50. It also needed a few parts, which have since come in. The stocks are a mess. I am weighing restoration vs. replacement. I'm also undecided about the finish of the metal: restoration vs. conservation. Should I keep it like a beat up relic that shoots good, or should I give it some sparkle and shine? I don't have a lot in it....my total cost will be way under the price of a new repro carbine.
    Should I sign up with the Spencer boys? Sounds like a good idea. What must I do?

[Two Flints]

Hi Joe,

What's a Winchester?  Spencer MEN, not boys

If it were my Spencer, and it shoots OK I would leave it as original as possible and just do a mimimum of clean up . . . other members might want to do more or suggest you do more.

You are already a member, I just added your name to the membership list.

Best wishes,

Two Flints

[Blair]

Joe,

Two Flints is offering you some good advice.
Once you get you Spencer up and running... you may wish to do more to it. But that will be your choice. After all the firearm belongs to you!
In the mean time, learn what you can about them so that your choice will be better informed.
My best,
Blair

[Joe Lansing]

    Much appreciated, MEN. I have to order some dies, but I have just about everything else. including a CF block from S&S and 100 Starline cases and a mould for lightweight 50-70 bullets. I load for 50-70, 45-70, 45-60, 45LC, 44-40, 44 Colt, and a bunch of smokeless numbers. I also have a bunch of stick loaders and c&b revolvers and a Cohorn mortar.

                                                   J.L.

[Joe Lansing]

Mor-Kik:  CHECK YOUR MESSAGES.

                            JL