I’ve been watching and looking for a Spencer for years. Should have pulled the trigger on one two or three years ago, because values have been rising on originals and repops. Reproduction Spencer’s were $800 - $900, some even cheaper before Covid. While Italy production was shut down the remaining stock in the US started going up, some selling as high as $1800. The new MSRP from Chiappa or Taylors is $1995.
Well, I found a Taylors and Co. Spencer carbine in 44 Russian for $1350. I already load 44 Russian so didn’t need to gear up for a new caliber. I really like it although I’ve seen them with better wood and case colors. It cycles my reloads just fine. Boy, that rear notch is tiny. But I have some original Civil War breech loading carbines, and they are the same.