Raw materials and Heat treatment of civil war small-arms including Spencers

[Chandler]

The website below contains excellent information regarding the raw materials used and heat treatment of component parts in civil war rifles. While the Spencer is not specifically mentioned in this article, the materials and processes were pretty much standard across all gun manufacturers. Anyone interested in this facet of gun manufacture should read this website.

http://www.angelfire.com/ny3/76thnysvol/civilwarguns.html