Serial number question

[Nlneff]

I've always wanted a Spencer, and may finally be about to bite the bullet and buy one. I'm looking at a 1860 Carbine, serial number 34844.  I'm optimistic it may have seen some service in the last few months of the civil war.  Any information will be appreciated, and I understand that precise info is not available often.

[Two Flints]

The closest serial # I found in my SRS books to your # 34844 is #34866, a Spencer Carbine issued to Company I, 3rd Michigan Volunteer Cavalry in June, 1865.  I looked through my four SRS books, and that is the best I can give you.  Hope you read my Serial Number Disclaimer on the SSS Home Page.

Two Flints

[Nlneff]

Understood and thank you.

[Trailrider]

I don't have any proof, but the 7th Cav had both the M1860 and the M1865 Spencers issued to different companies in Kansas territory right after the CW. Not sure what ammo was issued, but the .56-50 could be fired in the larger diameter barrels of the .56-56 that the M1860 was chambered for. The '60 carbines had a tapered bore that had the groove diameter decrease from .545 to .538" from the breach to the muzzle.  Accuracy probably wasn't too bad with the .515" softer lead bullets backed by black powder. 

[mgmradio]

Trailrider,
   You have it backwards, you can fire a 56-56 out of a 56-50 with no harm or real change in accuracy, but not the other way around. Though a 56-50 will fit and fire from an 1860, the bullet will go anywhere but we're you are aiming, though it may be good for shooting around corners. Ask me how I know.