Remington Society

I would appreciate some input on this early carbine. It is chambered for 56-56 Spencer NOT 56-50.there is no serial number and the only markings are on the tang -- Standard early Remington with the the Nov.15 1864 & April 17 1866 dates.What are your thoughts on this carbine chambered in this old Spencer cartridge. Thank You -- Rick

Dear Rick
Good find there! I have an exact copy of this carbine listed in my new Military Rolling Block book which will be out in December from Mowbray Publishing Co. (Man at Arms). The variation I have in the identical caliber has a slightly longer chamber almost as a.52-70 rimfire and has the Cambodian/Siamese Chakra over the receiver ring. It also has Sanskrit markings beneath the stock. and appears to have been issued to Cambodia when it became a French Protectorate sometime around 1884. Your carbine may be one of the several thousand of unamed (as of now) caliber carbines sold to France durng the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. If you note, the barrel on yours has rounded sides to the chamber which is reminiscent of either a Spencer or Whitney barrel. Try to measure your chamber and see if it is longer the standard .56-50 Spencer ctge. When my book gets out, read into that section of Cambodia thorouoghly, and it might give a better insight perhaps. Also look for any unusual markings that may be worn on yours, as well as under the forearm. By the way does your rear sight have the Springfield 1861 / 63 musket style "spanner" screw in lieu of the standard flat head groove type? I will be in touch..

Regards,
George Layman