Need Browning 1885 bpcr info

[OHHJIMMY]

I have a Browning 1885 Hiwall in 45-70(it's the standard model). I use it for deer hunting. Once in a while I see a black powder model for sale and I would like to know more about them. Some times the listing says it can be used with smokeless powder. Can all of the black powder models be used with smokeless powder? Are they the same strenth action as the standard model? Is the twist rate the same as the standard model? What is the weight of the bpcr model? are they tapped for scope mounts? Sorry for all the questions.

[ShortStake]

OHHJIMMY,

The Browning, BPCR Model 1885 High Wall, in .45-70 is chambered as per SAAMI specification which includes smokeless powder factory loads.  The Browning BPCR model in .40-65 is marked "BLACK POWDER ONLY" for the simple reason there are no SAAMI chamber specifications for that round.  Believe the .45-90 Creedmoor Model BPCR is also so marked for "BLACK POWDER ONLY".


My experiences with the various Browning High Wall models is that they are basically the same action excluding the ejected cartridge case diverter immediately behind the chamber on the non-BPCR models and the extended top tang found on the BPCR models.

The twist rate for the Browwning BPCR in .45-70 and .45-90 are both 1-18".  The Browning BPCR in .40-65 is a 1-16" twist rate.

The Browning BPCR Models in .40-65 and .45--70, with the factory tang sights installed  weight in at 12 pounds +/- depending on wood density.  The Browning Creedmoor Model in .45-90 with a 2" longer barrel should weigh a bit more as it does have a more complex front tang sight adjustable for windage.   

 Perhaps Texas Mac will weigh in on the subject and give a more learned and knowledgeable answer. 

[OHHJIMMY]

Thanks for the reply. I'm trying to learn as much as I can about the bpcr. What's different about the cartridge diverter? Does it not have one? Can you still find scope mounts to fit these?

[iowa]

OHHJIMMY:  re: Scope top base mounts for the Browning 1885 are still avialable from Weaver I believe.  #11 for the receiver and #29 for the barrel.   I just picked up a set recently locally.   best regards steve witt

[TexasMac]

OHHJIMMY,
I can't improve on ShortStake's comments except to answer your additional ones.  Since BPCR shooters are not interested in a fast follow-up shot and generally keep and reload all cases, when Browning designed the BPCR line the automatic ejector was removed and replaced with a simple extractor that slides the case or unfired cartridges sufficiently out of the chamber to be fully extracted by hand.  There is no cartridge diverter.

Concerning the scope base mounts, Iowa's comments are correct with the additional caution that shimming will most likely be required under the Weaver bases. In fact both of the noted Weaver base packages contain the note, “SHIMMING IS PROBABLY REQUIRED FOR PERFECT SCOPE ALIGNMENT”.  I confirmed the Weaver bases will fit and shimming is definitely required when using standard Weaver rings.  When mounted on my .40-65 Browning, shimming totaling 0.038” was necessary under the rear base for perfect scope-to-ring alignment.  Weaver style Burris Signature Rings, with synthetic pivoting inserts within a steel outer ring, will eliminate the need for shimming, assuming the scope has sufficient adjustment range to compensate for the slight tilt.  Better yet, use the Burris’ Signature Pos-Align Offset Insert Kit to eliminate both shimming and scope tilt.  Hope this helps.

Wayne

[OHHJIMMY]

Thanks for the replies. I'm gonna keep looking at these. May have to get one.