He developed the first fully automatic turret lathe,[1] which in its small- to medium-sized form is also known as a screw machine.

On August 18, 1863, Christopher Spencer walked into the White House carrying one of his rifles and a supply of cartridges.

After some discussion, he returned the following afternoon, when Spencer and Lincoln were joined by Edwin Stanton, Secretary of War and other officials, and the group then proceeded to walk out on the Mall.

Spencer Repeating Rifle Company declaring bankruptcy in 1868; and assets were acquired by Oliver Winchester for $200,000 in 1869.

Once again faced with financial hardships, Spencer's company and his patents were purchased circa 1890 by Francis Bannerman & Sons of New York who continued to manufacture his shotgun until around 1907.