Author Topic: Older .58 Cal. Huntsman  (Read 599 times)

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Offline EVOC ONE

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Older .58 Cal. Huntsman
« on: December 16, 2007, 09:21:56 AM »
Hello Everyone.

I happened across one of these at a local shop this weekend. 

It's condition seems to be rather good.  The breech is very clean as is the plug.  The ramrod is decent.  There is a brass compartment in the stock with an extra nipple, which looks new.  The nipple compartment has a cork ring lining it.  The brass is shiny and untarnished.  The stock and forend look very nice and have aged well.  The SN prefix is AL.  The overall appearance is used, but seemingly well taken care of.

I went back a few pages and read of the hang fire problems that have occurred.  One member remarked that this model was a cause of the old H&R being sued.  After reading several threads, I feel I'm clear on the breech plug issue.  This rifle has definitely been shot a few times and carefully cleaned, so I don't feel that there has been any plug problems.  Other comments seem to favor the old rifle as a useful classic.

I would like to purchase it, but would also like to shoot it.  I've never owned a muzzle loader and don't see myself becoming a muzzle loader junkie, but it would extend deer season. The age and style of this particular model suits me just fine.

What I'm looking for are any additional comments or information anyone could offer regarding the rifle itself. 

Would it be appropriate for a novice, such as myself? 

Should it be considered a wall hanger?

Thanks.   :)

Offline MSP Ret

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Re: Older .58 Cal. Huntsman
« Reply #1 on: December 16, 2007, 02:09:38 PM »
My opinion is it is a shooter, not a wall hanger. Use the proper precautions and you will be fine. How much are they asking for it, that would be a big consideration. I missed one for $95.00 and am still kicking myself...<><....:)

P.S. - others here more knowledgeable may have more info on this but I think I have heard of some that have had their push in breechplug models threaded to accept the next models threaded in breechplug.
"Giving up your gun to someone else on demand is called surrender. It means that you have given up your ability to protect yourself to a power that is greater than you." - David Yeagley

Offline PHATINJUN

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Re: Older .58 Cal. Huntsman
« Reply #2 on: December 16, 2007, 03:19:40 PM »
Buy it if you don't care for it let me know and I'll take it off your hands if you don't mind what's are they asking for it? Kurt
Deceased 2/16/24
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/machesney-park-il/kurt-heckman-11671764

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Offline Marlin_444

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Re: Older .58 Cal. Huntsman
« Reply #3 on: December 16, 2007, 03:44:17 PM »
Hey Man:



AL = Built in 1973, I have one too - bought it a few weeks ago...

I am having it fitted with a screw in Breech Plug that will fire 209's (Standard was a #11 Primer).

I paid $150.00 which was a little high but it's in good shape.

Plan to use it as my Bear Gun next season.

Will be working up loads after I get the gun back from my Smith!

Enjoy that old Big Bore Safely!
SCREAM A LITTLE and I'll see you at the lake, around the beach, on the mountain & in the woods on this side or the other... Ron

Offline EVOC ONE

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Re: Older .58 Cal. Huntsman
« Reply #4 on: December 17, 2007, 12:15:53 AM »
Thanks for the comments, guys.         

This is the information I was looking for.  After I posted, I did more research and was next to inquire about whether it could/should be converted to use the 209 primer. 

Yes.  I should have posted the asking price to learn if it was appropriate.  He's asking $130.

Marlin 444:  That's it on the top!  ;D.  It looks just like it with exception of the brass door in the stock. 

Andy, I know how you feel.  A few years back I passed on a few Shakari's:  a couple of .44's, the other a .45-70.  That summer they seemed to be turning up everywhere.  I helped in arraigning for a .44 to go Wally out in Montana.  I haven't seen one since.   :(

Think I'll drive out to the shop today for another look see.   ;D

Offline Marlin_444

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Re: Older .58 Cal. Huntsman
« Reply #5 on: December 17, 2007, 01:30:10 AM »
Hey EVOC ONE:

Post a pic if you pick up the BIG BORE, I'd be curious about the Brass on the stock...

I am planning to do a liittle Custom Work (Tacky Black Wood Refinish) & possibly a Port Job, a neat Patch Box might be cool to add on...

If they are asking $130.00, offer them a little less maybe you can get a real deal!

Have a Good One!
SCREAM A LITTLE and I'll see you at the lake, around the beach, on the mountain & in the woods on this side or the other... Ron

Offline Redhawk45

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Re: Older .58 Cal. Huntsman
« Reply #6 on: December 19, 2007, 06:04:36 AM »
did you pick it up????