HELP!!?? Which Spencer rifle, 56/60 or 44/40

Cannon Fodder · September 17, 2006, 12:00:18 PM

I need opinions from those that already have rifles (and carbines) in 56/50 and /or 44/40.

I am 66 and trending away from reenacting towards living historian. I also do not reload my own at this point.

I occasionally do a naval impression, so I think I want the spencer rifle.

However,which one-56/50 or 44/40?

PS, I am going to buy something soon!!!

Fox Creek Kid · September 17, 2006, 12:21:20 PM

This is a slam dunk as you don't reload: buy the 44-40. The 56-50 is a reload only proposition unless you're rich.

Wymore Wrangler · September 17, 2006, 01:15:59 PM

I'm wondering if the 44-40 is a misprint on the website, the first two Spencers from Taylors were chambered in 44 Russian (not 44-40) and 45 Schofield?

Major 2 · September 17, 2006, 01:49:05 PM

Nope 44/40 is correct ... the 44 Russian is discontinued....
45 Sch. is still offered for now.

Agreed, if cost per round is a factor go the 44/40.

Frenchie · September 17, 2006, 03:15:19 PM

Another question: Is there more trouble with extraction with the .44-40? Tuolomne Lawman says his .44-40 carbine extracts fine, but I've been warned they might be iffy. What's the latest word on this?

Wymore Wrangler · September 17, 2006, 09:17:52 PM

I stand corrected,

based on that 44-40 is alot easier to find that 56-50, I'd go with the 44-40....

Major 2 · September 17, 2006, 10:01:48 PM

Just to put a number on the costs

http://www.gadcustomcartridges.com/

44/40 = 50 rounds @ $18 = $ .36 each
56/50 = 20 rounds @ $30 = $ 1.50 each

Tuolumne Lawman · September 18, 2006, 10:39:29 AM

Quote from: Frenchie on September 17, 2006, 03:15:19 PM
Another question: Is there more trouble with extraction with the .44-40? Tuolomne Lawman says his .44-40 carbine extracts fine, but I've been warned they might be iffy. What's the latest word on this?

The 44-40s do not have the dual blades of the 45 Schofield and 44 Russian. The 44-40s have the single center hook of the 56-50 called a Lane extractor. They are infinitely superior to the side blades with modern cartridges, though with original copper rimfires, they sheared the soft copper rim.

I have forced a fired 44-40 from a 73 into the chamber of the Spencer, tight and dry. The 44-40s LAne extractor pulled it fine.

With the 45 Schofields and 44 Russians (which have the dual blades instead) , however, many folks take out the right hand blade. I think some are confusing the 44 Russian and 44-40

Frenchie · September 18, 2006, 07:41:30 PM

Merci beaucoup, TL! That's what I needed to know!

Tuolumne Lawman · September 20, 2006, 03:08:17 PM

Quote from: Cannon Fodder on September 17, 2006, 12:00:18 PM
I need opinions from those that already have rifles (and carbines) in 56/50 and /or 44/40.

I am 66 and trending away from reenacting towards living historian. I also do not reload my own at this point.

I occasionally do a naval impression, so I think I want the spencer rifle.

However,which one-56/50 or 44/40?

PS, I am going to buy something soon!!!

Check my post. Tempting!!!! I'll even throw in the BAC mold!

Cannon Fodder · September 20, 2006, 04:06:14 PM

T L

I am am very interested in your 56/50 rifle.

You can reach me at debick@bellsouth.net with your info.I would prefer to talk to you on the phone.

Best,Cannon Fodder