Spencer Carbine & Rifle Combination Screwdriver - post-Civil War issue

[Two Flints]

SPENCER CARBINE AND RIFLE COMBINATION SCREWDRIVER – SPRINGFIELD ARMORY POST CIVIL WAR MODIFICATION:  This Combination Screwdriver was manufactured at the Springfield Armory for issue with the Indian War era Spencer Carbines and Rifles, formed by modifying the Model 1863 Rifle Musket Tool.  As described on page 92, Gun Tools, Their History and Identification, Shaffer, Rutledge, and Dorsey, this tool bears the inspector's initials stamped below the rivet, "R.K.".  Another example of the necessary post Civil War frugality forced upon the army, this tool incorporates the two different sizes of screwdrivers necessary to dismount and maintain this famous carbine.  This specimen is in excellent condition, with a freely moving blade, a nice finish and the added value of the inspector's initials that are not commonly found on these tools. 

[Black River Smith]

I made a combination tool similar to the original.  I made it from 1/2" X 1/8" cold rolled steel flat bar.  Took some time to taper the blades but it works.

[St. George]

The Army didn't want to waste anything it already owned - and this tool, along with the one for the Schofield is a good example of that - plus, modifying equipment was an effective way to keep Armory employees occupied.

One of the good things about using military firearms in C&WAS is the ability to look for and add 'stuff' to your outfit.

Accouterments such as these tools 'are' something a man might have in his saddlebag.

The user of a non-military piece is limited to a commercial tool of some variety - if that.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!