Antique Spencer - Unsafe to shoot?

[ArtyMan]

Hey guys,

I'll start this by saying that I know the only way to really determine if something is safe to shoot is by having it inspected by a proper gunsmith. Given that they aren't exactly common, I figure posting a few pictures here to determine if it's even worth going to and paying a gunsmith for an inspection, or should I not even bother.

I just picked up a really nice antique M1865 Spencer carbine in .56-50. This carbine has a nice action and I was able to pick up 50 pieces of expensive brass online. I have a center fire breech block conversion on the way, along with dies and planned to shoot this carbine, even if only a few times a year on occasion.

Upon trying to fit a piece of empty brass into the carbine, I realized it wouldn't seat all the way easily (and I didn't want to force it). A closer inspection showed that the left side of the chamber area has a burr in it, and what potentially appears to be a dent or deformation? There is a vertical cut on the left side of the chamber where the extractor blade sits, which is all good, but the burr and potential deformation on the left side of the chamber likely isn't good...

Here is a picture I found online of another M1865 Spencer which also appears to show similar dents/burs on the left side of the chamber.

Here is an interesting article where the image came from, that speaks to extractor markings on casings on Antique Spencer's

http://www.pochefamily.org/books/IndianSpencers.html

Basically what I am wondering is - is there a point in taking this to a gunsmith or is this a wall hangar? Those of you who own an antique Spencer - does this look consistent with your breech area?

I will also cross post this on the Spencer Forum on the CAS City website.

Thanks,
Matt

 

[bearhunter]

Just clean it up carefully and it will be good to go IMHO.

 

[DANCESWITHEMPTIES]

In complete ignorance of Spencer rifles and their chambers: Seeing that chamber & the other one from online, would want me to have both checked out by a knowledgeable gunsmith. I'd be very weary of online advice about shootability of such a fine rifle.

 

[Curtis264]

Go on here and ask your question, some rerally knowledgeable people on this site dedicated to the Spencer
https://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php?board=35.0

 

[ArtyMan]

Thanks for the replies guys! Buddy over on the Spencer forum says the chip on the left side is fairly common and the ding on the right is from excessive dry firing. Seems like he suspects with a file or potentially a Having a gunsmith use a chamber reamer that these could be fixed.

I’m in no rush to shoot this and if there is one thing I’ve learned with 150+ year old firearms, it’s patience and education before a blade and hacksaw. In all likelihood I’ll end up taking it to a gunsmith in due time and will stick to shooting my antique Sharps for that fix.

Thanks again!