Hello, and thanks, Two Flints, Ndnchief and Blair:
Ndnchief helped me with a PM about his three Threads:
24 AUG13: Need help with feeding problem.
31AUG13: Shooting the Model 1871 Springfield Spencer Infantry Rifle.
21FEB18: M 1871 Springfield Spencer chambered for .50-45 Cadet?
Those revealing Threads ADD important details, including the longer chamber, longer case and round, AND that Ndnchief's original, unaltered 1871 cycles the longer, but not the standard 56-50.
Marcot's 2nd Edition includes, as best I can find, only a passing comment:
On page 158, he recounts design limitations, but includes that the action will cycle ctg's up to 2" long. That's a lot longer than the usual 56-50 and the 1.683" round of Ndnchief's 1871. Marcot does not say what allows up to a 2" ctg.
This 2" aspect makes me wonder if the Spencer design was not taken to its maximum potential. I recall that during the CW, there were maximum case diameter and length limitations due to lack of case drawing skills even for the Federal side. By 1871, perhaps that had been solved, but the Ord. Dep't. wanted a round over 2"?
Rocky Mountain Ctg, per Cheri Outland, has a 56-56 "Special" headstamped case, not on the usual list, that is a close OAL to Ndnchief's. Could be someone went down the 56-45 Cadet path several years ago. I use that case with its greater capacity in non-Spencer rifle.
At this point, I am hoping that someone can please share useful details on what differences are in the 1871 that cycles the longer ctg. Larry Romano said he has no clue. My suspicion is that different dimensions or separations of the projections on the lower block are involved.
Perhaps Herbert, Arizona Trooper or N-SSA Spencer wizards will please enlighten us?
Again, I am most grateful for everyone's work. Smiles and respect.
El Supremo/Kevin Tinny