When does a hobby become an addiction?

k9870 · #1 03-26-2011, 12:54 AM

The smith 459 should have won the xm9 trials, but those were rigged from the start for beretta to win.

The 459 was the only entry to pass accuracy requirements and passed the mud test and round count, then was disqualified for being blued steel, smith could easily parkerize it, but we wanted that base in italy.

S&Wshooter · #2 03-26-2011, 02:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by k9870

The smith 459 should have won the xm9 trials, but those were rigged from the start for beretta to win.

The 459 was the only entry to pass accuracy requirements and passed the mud test and round count, then was disqualified for being blued steel, smith could easily parkerize it, but we wanted that base in italy.

If I would have had $350 last time I went to Collectors, I would have a 459

Could have got a used 559 for $250 at ammotogo's store in Brenham

S&Wshooter · #3 03-26-2011, 02:17 AM

How old is that rifle?

S&Wshooter · #4 03-26-2011, 02:21 AM

My bad, the gun a ammotogo's store was a Model 59

Nyles · #5 03-26-2011, 04:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by S&Wshooter

How old is that rifle?

The 1860 carbine was made between 1863 and 1865, all Spencers made before 1863 being rifles. About 45000 were made, the serial number on mine being in the 38000 range it was likely issued in July of 1864. Interestingly, a number of Spencers in this approximate block were issued to the 5th Michigan Volunteer Cavalry, part of the 5th Michigan Cavalry Brigade under Brigadier General George Armstrong Custer. It's not a very firm link at all, but a fascinating historical association.