Model 1865 Spencer Carbine manufactured by the Burnside Rifle Company. Spencer Model 1865 Carbines were extensively used in campaigns against hostile Native American tribes following the Civil War. The left side of the carbine stock is boldly stamped: "U.S./COL.TER" in two lines which indicates that it is one of 500 Spencer Carbines transferred by the Ordnance Department to the Territory of Colorado on October 16, 1868. Identical markings on Model 1865 Carbine serial number "22526" are shown on page 129 of "SPENCER REPEATING FIREARMS" by Roy Marcott. The carbine has the Stabler magazine cut-off, and has the standard stock mounted sling swivel, sling bar and ring, folding leaf rear sight with 900 yard center notch and block-mounted iron front sight. The barrel is blued and the receiver, hammer, lever and buttplate have a casehardened finish. The stock and forearm are oil-finished walnut. The top of the receiver is roll-stamped with "MODEL/1865" in two vertical lines followed by the Spencer and Burnside Rifle Co. legend in four horizontal lines. The serial number "28352" is stamped on the top of the receiver behind the breech block. The initials of the ordnance Sub-Inspector "J.L.C." are stamped on the left barrel flat. Single initial Ordnance sub-inspection marks are stamped on most components. Two script initial Ordnance final inspection marks with oval and rectangular borders are stamped on the left side of the stock wrist.

Good. The carbine has an even brown patina with traces of the original casehardened finish visible on the receiver. The "U.S./COL. TER" markings on the left side of the stock are sharp. The ordnance inspection marks on the left stock wrist are visible but illegible. The stock and forearm are in good condition with the exception of three small dents on the right side of the stock comb which have been repaired with wood filler. The action functions well. This is a solid example of a Western Model 1865 Spencer Carbine.