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Originally Posted by S&Wshooter
How old is that rifle?
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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.