Dick Hosmer Posted May 9, 2023 Share #1 Posted May 9, 2023 This Model 1896 carbine, serial 70210, was carried by a member of Troop "M" 6th USC at the siege of Peking in 1900. It was overhauled at Benicia Arsenal after returning to the States. There are about 60 others with the same provenance listed by Springfield Research Service. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dick Hosmer Posted May 9, 2023 Author Share #2 Posted May 9, 2023 A question for the members/readers: Obviously, the carbine did not have the 32" stock and M1901C sight in China - they were done at Benicia. However, the metal is absolutely uniform in wear and color, so that MAY have been all that was done. I have a proper short stock, hand guard, band, and most importantly, a correct, original, matching finish, M1896C rear sight. I've always wondered if I should return it to its' original configuration? NO one would be able to tell. Interested in your opinion(s). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GWS Posted May 9, 2023 Share #3 Posted May 9, 2023 Dick- I understand your dilemma. It can never be 100% original as- issued again but the parts you have will make it as close to that as possible. Keep the Benicia parts with it for a complete story and have 2 legitimate rifles in 1! Very nice piece indeed. Steve Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CAC1901 Posted May 10, 2023 Share #4 Posted May 10, 2023 If you have a great attributed piece like that, leave it alone. The Benecia work IS a part of its service life & history - like it or not. Its easy enough to get an unattributed piece and 'make it' correct or period right. Be the 'warts and all' history preserver, not the 'wish-it-were-this' collector.' Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OD-Blue-Top Posted May 10, 2023 Share #5 Posted May 10, 2023 I agree with GWS. Configure it in the way that pleases you, after all it is "your" carbine! This is a very nice carbine with a great history. Thanks for showing it. James Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dick Hosmer Posted May 10, 2023 Author Share #6 Posted May 10, 2023 39 minutes ago, CAC1901 said: If you have a great attributed piece like that, leave it alone. The Benecia work IS a part of its service life & history - like it or not. Its easy enough to get an unattributed piece and 'make it' correct or period right. Be the 'warts and all' history preserver, not the 'wish-it-were-this' collector.' Well, I've had it for 45+ years, and have been having this discussion with myself for almost as long! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now