Lot 237: U.S. Springfield Infantry Rifle Conversion of a Burnside Spencer

One of 1,108 Burnside-Spencer carbines converted to infantry rifles by Springfield Armory circa 1871. The conversions were done by fitting the carbine action with a rifle length .50 caliber barrel and longer forearm, secured with two barrel bands, and fitted with a slotted cleaning rod. The action retains its saddle ring bar and ring. The action shows standard markings, the barrel and action are numbered to match, and a faint "ESA" cartouche is on the left of the wrist. It shows standard features including the Stabler cut-off device. Removable collection mark on the bottom of the lever. Includes a "2" marked socket bayonet.

Fine as arsenal converted and refinished, retains 50% thinned blue finish and 40% case colors with the balance a smooth grey patina and a few patches of light pitting. The reoiled wood has some scattered minor dings and scratches and a faint cartouche. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is also very fine showing mostly bright with some grey patina and evidence of cleaning.