New Spencer 45 LC or .56-50

[Mwf203]

Let me start by saying I know some of these topics such as where to get info are covered in the sources of info sticky.

I'm looking to get my first Spencer as I've always been fascinated with them since I was a kid. But at the time I was getting into firearms the military surplus arms of the world wars were plentiful and cheap so I landed in that realm for a long time. But now I'm looking to pick up a Spencer and I'd like to use it for a variety of purposes from deer hunting to blinking and target shooting. I've reloaded ammo for years but never .56-50 and I hadn't ever looked for .56-50 ammo till recently. So when looking at the Spencer's I see that the best running runs are in .56-50 and additionally that makes a fine deer round. But then I went looking for ammo and we'll there is none. Looked for brass, none. Looked for .50-70 brass and well none. The 45 LC I already load for and have a variety of SAA's that are chambered in it. But if it's not going to cycle what's the point? Also if 100 yds is pushing it it's probably not the best. What is everyone's take on the 45 LC vs .56-50 Spencer debate? How long has brass been gone? Does it come back in stock from time to time? Is it worth mr getting it in .56-50 and it possibly being a couple years before I can shoot it?

[Abilene]

DUDE!  You can thank your timing with this post.  I just looked and Starline has 56-50 brass on "backorder" status.  That means they are accepting orders, and generally means you will get your brass within weeks, though sometimes months.  So heck, go order immediately because that won't last long, and if you end up not using it then it should be easy to sell.

https://www.starlinebrass.com/56-50-spencer-taylors-brass/

You're welcome. 

[Mwf203]

Well that settles that. I just ordered a bunch of brass before I even ordered the rifle. 

[DeaconKC]

  Like button!

[Coal Creek Griff]

I didn't want to answer your first question because I don't really have enough experience, but now that you've made your caliber decision, I'll say this. I have a Chiappa/Armi Sport Spencer carbine in .56-50 that I bought used via GunBroker a number of years ago. Since it was used, maybe someone worked on it, but it has always worked great for me and the trigger pull is better than some have reported. I did polish the mainspring, mainly because I like to tinker, but also to potentially reduce the likelihood of breakage, but it wasn't really necessary.  Going with the .56-50 adds some challenge over the .45 Colt, but the fun factor is much higher. Now, load it with black powder and you'll enter a new dimension of fun! 

Griff

[sbye]

I have the 56-50 and really like it. If you don't reload then the 45 Colt is the way to go. Since you already bought 56-50 brass I assume that you are already reloading. Enjoy it!