1860 Spencer carbine question

[Woodsy]

I have a Civil War 1860 Spencer carbine in my collection and have a question regarding the lever. My example has the tail of the lever about 3/8" away from the stock when the action is closed. Most photos show the lever touching the stock although I have seen a few photos that show the gap. There is no evidence that the lever has been bent. Is this a normal manufacturing variation? Any information from the Spencer gurus would be welcome!

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[mike181]

Woodsy:
I am far from an expert but I own an 1860 Spencer carbine. The lever on mine snaps closed completely against the stock. When yours closes leaving a 3/8 inch gap, does the block rise up so that it is even with the top of the receiver? That might tell you if it's a problem with the block mechanism or just an issue with the lever.
Mike in E Tenn.

[Woodsy]

Hi Mike. My carbine is in good working order, breech block comes right up, etc. but it has the gap. It is in the 50,000 range and I was wondering if the gap was common to guns in this serial number range. It doesn't bother me as I am happy with my carbine, but it is just that wee bit different to those normally seen. I have attached some photos.
Cheers, Rod.

[browningautorifle]

I had a military rifle some years back and it didn't have the gap. I don't know what serial number range it was...it too was well used as I guess goes with the age and time in history.

On the other hand, Joe Salter has one that shows that very gap... 1865 Spencer Rifle Canadian Issue

[mike181]

It's interesting that browningautorifle.s link is a Spencer rifle, not a carbine. Apparently the gap is a common characteristic. I suggest looking at the Spencer Shooting Society site. There is a ton of information there and they have experts who can probably shed some light on your question. Good Luck!

[browningautorifle]

Any information from the Spencer gurus would be welcome!

It's interesting that browningautorifle.s link is a Spencer rifle, not a carbine.

He DID say ANY information would be welcome.

[Woodsy]

All information is welcome, and as my enquiry was related to the action which is common to both rifle and carbine, most useful. I just checked the Spencer Shooting Society site but never found a post relevant to my question, but lots of other good info, thanks.