Machine Shop Fun

[Arizona Trooper]

This isn't exactly Spencer related, it's more of a Spencer companion. Many years ago I picked up a Whitney Navy repro. I really like it. It has a solid frame, is 36 caliber instead of 44, which I prefer, and it holds well (and isn't a Colt). But there are a couple things that have driven me nuts about it for a long time. Mostly, it's the loading lever that is way too short. I think the Italians used the same lever on the Rodgers & Spencer, and the Spiller and Burr. It's pretty close for them, but not the Whitney.   

My junque box included a Whitney barrel latch, lever latch and a bullet plunger, so all I had to do was make the lever, which I did over vacation the last couple weeks. I also made a set of correctly contoured walnut grips and recontoured the hammer to be more authentic.

While putting it all back together, I mic'ed the cylinder and slugged barrel, only to discover that the cylinder bores were 0.366" and the barrel is 0.370". No wonder it wasn't a great shooter! Now the chambers are reamed to 0.371".

I can't wait to give it a try!   

[Roscoe Coles]

Looks good, take a little time an get  rid of all the proof marks and "black powder only" stuff.  When ever I do a bunch of work on a cap and ball gun I draw file all that stuff off and refinish it.  It makes a big difference.