Interesting Photos & Text of a Modified Spencer

[Two Flints]

Hello SSS,

The following "Turkish" Spencer is listed on GunBroker.com and the seller has given me permission to post his photos and text on SSS for informational purposes only.  The seller John indicated to me that he would try to add additional information once he has completed researching this particular Spencer.

Two Flints

Turkish Spencer repeater model 1867 .52 cal (50-70 turned down to 650" or .348 Win) rolling block rifle in Fair condition with manufacturer's stamp ground off on top of receiver, 3" crack on left side of buttstock and rim area of chamber dented in from being dry fired. It doesn't look too bad but may need to be filed down a bit in order for shell to chamber. Action is smooth and works properly. Bore on 33" octagon barrel has defined ridges and valleys with some pitting and is dark. 7 round buttstock magazine is missing cover and stock is a bit loose. Forestock has a few small cracks with repairs on left side and is loose. rear sight is crooked and is missing ramp. Total length 50", length of pull 13". Firearm is considered an antique and proof of age is required. Mag tube available from SS Firearms. F.F.L. REQUIRED FOR RESTICTED STATES  

[Black River Smith]

Nice historical sporter.  Thanks for posting the pictures.

[matt45]

Interesting- exactly what caliber is this- is it a 56-50?

[Tuolumne Lawman]

Howdy to the camp.

Well it wouuld be a 56-50 (military name) or 56-52 (Spencer's name).  The fact I can see it is cut for the single blade Lane extractor that comes from underneath the chamber confirms it is an 1867 model.  Anyone have an idea what the thin brass plates are that are inside either side of the breech opening?  They appear to be held buy a single screw from the outside.

[Tuolumne Lawman]

While looking at the pictures, I realized that this started life as a rifle, not a carbine - even before the barrel was changed.  No provision for a sling bar on the left side.  Anyone know how many 1867 RIFLES there were?  The fact it has a Lane extractor means it is an 1867 model, I believe.

[matt45]

Oh boy, have to consult my Marcot- will get back to you.
O.K.- according to Marcot, roughly 1000 1867 rifles were made.  Another thousand or so new models were made, and some of them had the lane extractor.
Does the fact it is 56-50 or 56-52 preclude it from beginning its life as a sporter?