Just got an M1867 Spencer Infantry Rifle

[Murphinator]

Just got an M1867 Spencer Infantry Rifle and I have some questions. First off I am going to convert it to centerfire as it is still Rimfire. Secondly, I am having a hard time finding ammunition which I guess comes with the territory when owing a rifle built 154 years ago. I found a guy local to me selling .56-50 Spencer ammo that was made from .50-70 Government brass. My rifle has the later Lane Extractor not the original Model 1860 or Model 1865 case extractor. Will these bullets made from the .50-70 Brass with the rim sized for the original non lane extractors ? If they will work that would be great. I placed an order with Starline Brass (albeit a backorder) as they wont be able to fill my order until after October 2024 according to their support staff. On a side note are these rifles easy to convert to center fire ? Thanks to all who reply. If anyone is willing to sell brass I am in the market for some .56-50 Spencer Brass or completed rounds.

[El Supremo]

Welcome, Murphinator:

Please try to post clear, close-up photo's of your rifle, including the top of the receiver showing number on it top rear.

There's lots of info in the "SORI" section here.

Ammunition should be matched to your bore dimensions. If your local contact can "slug" your bore, the starting bullet diameter is approx. .001", not more, over GROOVE OD.  Issue, original Spencer GROOVE OD's can vary enough to create accuracy issues if the bullet OD is off dimension. 

S and S Guns in GLENDALE NY should be able to provide a center fire upper block.  Be sure you arrange that it can be returned if not fussed-up if it doesn't fit.  Most fit, but .... .

Cut down 50-70 cases should fit the rim cut, chamber, and function with the Lane extractor.  Test fit a round or case, gently. The essential aspect when using cut down 50-70's is that shortening them removes the annealed mouth portion, so fresh annealing is needed to allow repeated firings.  I know where to get new Starline 50-90 brass, but it must be cut and annealed, if you wish to Private Message me. 

I just sent you a PM. 

Please post your progress.  Thanks.
El Supremo/ Kevin Tinny

[Jack Wagon]

Congrats on your New Model rifle. Mine has the Buffalo Arms CF block and S&S CF cartridge follower. It shoots the Starline 56-50 brass with a 350gr. .515 bullet. The block dropped right in and is smooth as butter. I use 35grs 1  1 /2 Swiss with a WW large rifle primmer. She is one of my best shooters. It took some effort to get all the pieces parts, but  was well worth it in the end. Jw