So, I bought this rolling block action......

[olddaddy]

Time to learn a thing or two about rolling blocks.  I bought what appears to be a Husqvarna, 1871 that was 12.7mm rim fire.  It came with a bag of bits and pieces, springs etc.  My goal is a .45 colt field gun, something I can carry and hunt with, not a show piece necessarily.  I'm open to any advice on rebuild, parts, caliber etc. as this is a totally new venture for me.  I've read some and think it might be good to locate an original square thread barrel, re-chamber and liner to .45 colt.  Maybe a new barrel fitted to the action?  I'm wondering if the block and hammer could be swapped out for a center fire version? 

[Goatwhiskers]

My advice would be for you to go the single shot rifle site: www.assra.com, those guys have it together when it comes to the old ones.  Probably the gunsmithing forum.  Good luck with your project.  GW

[gunnut69]

that action looks to need a rebuild anyway so replacing the block would not be too much of an issue. The screws on the left side are likely incorrect. Many common re-barrelers hate square threads so a specialist is in order. The single shot guy in Cape Girreadue(sp.), Missouri would be worth a look.. That's a black powder roller so be cautious with pressure..

[jedman]

olddaddy,  I can just hear your topic line coming out of Larry Potterfields mouth,.......And thats how it is!  Seriously I dont know if what you want to do with it makes a lot of sense.
Parts for a rolling block action like that are very hard to find and unless you can do all the work for yourself and time and money are no issues, You would be much better off looking for a completed gun to buy.  There are a few rolling block rifles and carbines in 45 Colt that I have seen so they do exist and will be easier to find then the parts you need to build the gun you want on that action.
 Sorry to have to give you that kind of response but I believe its the truth.   


   jedman

[olddaddy]

Well,  I have lurked around the ASSRA forum, but have not found the courage to post there yet.  I believe my lack of knowledge and intent might offend some of the more vocal posters there.  I take no offense at your comments Jedman, have considered that same line of logic myself.  If I were to do things that made sense I would listen more to my wife I suppose.  Currently I have no money invested, only interest and some time.  If it can be done reasonably in terms of safety and cost I will continue, but not otherwise.  I have a safe full of great rifles, a shotgun etc....no need to stray too far afield in that regard.  Still,  the call of the wild, or at least different can be strong at times.  The challenge of making something from nothing is always there also.

[gcrank1]

You need to get,'Mr. Single Shot's Gunsmithing Idea Book' by Frank De Haas; it has plenty of the info you are looking for on Rollers, as well as others.
FWIW, one way to use a RF breechblock is to mount the barrel eccentric so the F-Pin hits the CF primer; you index it for vertical.
Modding a block for CF is tricky, especially if the F-Pin is at an angle as the very tip needs to be at the center when it hits the primer. The farther it travels the farther from center it gets, so close headspace is critical (and this often isnt mentioned in the directions).

[gunnut69]

Barreling a roller has several challenges. The headspace has to be right at the same time the block just clears the shelf on the hammer. This allows the action to be locked and at the precise moment the headspace is right... A competent smith is strongly advised.

[gcrank1]

I can only add to that with,'a competent roller experienced gunsmith'; a bolt gun guy isnt likely to understand the nuances.

[olddaddy]

Agreed, a competent roller smith is a necessity.  I've spoken two a couple of guys and will end up using one of them.  I found an original Husky barrel today that if it works out could be a good candidate for a re-line.  Original patina, modern bore, what is not to like about that?

[olddaddy]

The barrel, fore arm and stock arrived today and look like they were made for the action.  I can't believe what good condition they are in for their age......like me I suppose.  The barrel threads right in, but stops about 3/8" from going all the way against the shoulder of the action.  I can't tell if it's a slight diameter difference between the barrel shank od and the action id, or it it's dirty or boogered threads.  A closer look is in order, perhaps by someone more knowledgeable than me.