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Spencer Model 1882 12 Ga. SN: 643

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:300.00 USD Estimated At:600.00 - 800.00 USD
Spencer Model 1882 12 Ga. SN: 643
First Model, Grade A. Exhibition Quality Italian Walnut ,Turkish Damascus. This is the first model of the Spencer shotgun. Approximately 800 were made between 1884 and 1885 in Windsor. Designed by Christopher M. Spencer the designer of the Civil War military carbine and manufactured from 1882 to 1889, these Spencer shotguns are considered the first successful American slide action repeating shotgun, serial number stamped on the carrier. This highly attractive example features factory engraving. The engraving consists of scrollwork on the receiver and trigger guard. An engraved game dog scene surrounded by scrollwork is featured on the left side of the receiver, and the scrollwork surrounds the engraved "SPENCER/ARMS CO. PAT. APR. 1882" marking on the right side of the receiver. The engraving resembles known patterns by renowned Master Engraver Louis Daniel Nimschke or his New York shop. The barrel has the one-line Spencer Arms Co. address. The barrel and magazine tube are both an attractive Damascus pattern. The select grade Italian walnut short slide handle and round 'Prince of Wales' pistol grip stock feature finely executed checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a checkered hard rubber buttplate. Length of pull is 14 inches. Bore is good/bright, with scattered areas of light pitting,,action is crisp/tight, wood is very good with some minor scratches, metal finish has turned a plum patina, and all the engraving is sharp, retaining all the detail. Unfortunately, someone has shortened the barrel to 26", and installed a small screw as the sighting bead.
NRA Condition-Fair-Modified. Antique Firearm.