Author Topic: old blackpowder  (Read 848 times)

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Offline b44mag

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old blackpowder
« on: February 09, 2009, 05:26:02 AM »
hey guys my step dad has a old blackpowder gun . it has a 38 inch bbl with what looks to be 3/8 inch bore . says riddle on the lock side dose any buddy have a clue.  it has a full stock with brass cap on end theres 3 brass ramrod holders on it . it needs a nipple some one in the family said they thought it was from bedford in SW PA . not sure how old it is but his great great grand dad had it any info we dont want to shoot it but like to know what it is any info would be a great help
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Offline Longknife 76

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Re: old blackpowder
« Reply #1 on: February 09, 2009, 04:54:34 PM »
B44 mag, I think Riddle was a lock maker in the 19th century, who sold his locks to gunsmiths. I couldn't find him in my references though I have seen his name on many locks. The gunmaker would sign his name on the top flat of the barrel between the breech and rear sight. Look close as this area gets a lot af wear. Don't shoot that gun without having it thoroughly inspected by a competent gunsmith. They will corrode from the inside out and the drum threads and breech plug threads could be eaten away. I have found many that way....Ed

Offline b44mag

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Re: old blackpowder
« Reply #2 on: February 10, 2009, 04:01:33 PM »
thanks ed i was not going to shoot it the nipple threds are all ready gone so im sure the rest are just as bad  its going up on the wall at camp thanks for the info
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