July 30th 2016 Premier Firearms Sale (20)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/30/2016
20" barrel in .50 caliber. Manufactured 1865-66. This Model has the desirable Stabler cut-off which would allow the tube fed magazine to be fired as a single shot rifle only, meant to conserve ammunition during a battle. Features blued barrel, single barrel band with sling swivel, saddle ring bar and ring, case colored frame, walnut stocks, and rear sling swivel. Rear sight is a spring loaded military folding ladder rear. Breech of barrel stamped "M1865". Spencer address on receiver bridge. Left side of stock has the "E.C.W" and "D.A.P." inspector cartouche. Final approval by the U.S. Government for the Stabler cut-off was approved in April 1865. This system was installed on 12,502 carbines. At some point after the war, this gun was resold overseas as it bears two foreign inspectors marks at breech and bridge. Barrel is a pleasing mix of blue-brown patina with some dried grease or varnish evident. The frame colors have turned a brown patina. Wood is excellent, proud to metal, with perfect cartouche, and no cracks. Fine action. Strong, clean, near mint bore. A fine and scarce 1865 with desirable Stabler installation.