Spencer 1871 Conversion: From Carbine to Infantry Rifle
This video details the conversion of Spencer carbines into infantry rifles by Springfield Armory in 1871. Following the Civil War, thousands of Spencers required refurbishment. Springfield Armory undertook the task, refitting approximately 1,109 carbines by replacing barrels with a new 32.5-inch 1868 model rifle barrel, adding a 26-inch cleaning rod, and using two barrel bands. Wood and metal components were repaired or refinished, Stabler cutoffs were added if absent, and the receiver serial number was relocated to the barrel. This process transformed the carbines into more suitable infantry arms for the period.










