advice and opinions wanted

[keith44]

I am going to Dixie Gun Works Monday, and among other things will be looking at some of their mini cannons.  I want one that is capable of actually firing a ball or shot load, not just a noise maker.  I have several noise makers, or salute cannons.  I see two kits that from the description are similar, but prices are VERY dissimilar.  One is a field cannon kit for $129.00, the other is a mini napolean kit for $259.00.  Both .50 cals.  Then there is the Iron sides cannon and mini iron sides cannon one .50 one .69 cal. These are $279.00. (Prices from the web site)  So what gives are the barrels better, more suited to firing on the higher priced kits, or just better quality parts all around and each no better suited for firing than the other??

Keith

[Cannoneer]

Keith,

That .50 cal. cast bronze M1841 6-pounder kit with aluminum carriage and wheels for $129 never impressed me much. All the others that you mention are sold in the U.S. by "Traditions", and they are manufactured in Spain by a company that produces black powder firearms. The Spanish made miniatures all have well made steel barrels; I've got a .69 cal. Napoleon III, 12'' Mountain Howitzer, and a small .45 cal. rifled "Old Ironsides" that they don't make anymore. This is just my preference, but from the kits you mention I'd go with the .69 caliber naval gun.
There's also what might prove to be a much better option for you right here: Check the stickies for sponsors of this board, they're fine craftsman and produce some excellent artillery pieces. You can contact them and discuss what would best suit your wants/needs at this time.   

[keith44]

Thanks Cannoneer

I think you have already seen in another post that I indeed picked the naval replica model, in .69 cal.  So far my only complaint revolves around my skills with spray cans 

[Cannoneer]

Keith,
I think you made the best choice out of the field you listed; .69 is a decent sized ball, the barrel is well made, and the gun is realistic looking. I had a chance of getting one of those on eBay a few years ago; the seller was a gun shop and the muzzle swell was damaged (it had a pretty good sized dent in it), so I figured I might get it for a song, but the winning bid was actually around $70 more than the gun was selling for retail. eBay is an odd planet!