Browning B78 Extraction

[deltecs]

I need a gunsmith to repair and/or replace the extractor for a Browning B78 HiWall single shot rifle.  The rifle shoots fine but the casing will not extract from the chamber.  Looking closely at the extractor, I can see the extractor just slip under the head and not engage into the extractor groove on the brass.  It also looks like the extractor is nicked along the edge.  Can one of you gunsmiths let me know if the Browning 1885 HiWall uses the same extractor and can it be repaired.  I really like this weapon and would like to see it useful again.

[gunnut69]

The B78 is a modified 1885 and since I am not familiar with the new 1885 I don't know if parts will exchange. You might contact Browning as they have a listing for service for obsolete weapons on their web page. I have a B78 and the extractor uses a spring and plunger to power the extractor's flex feature. This is to allow the use of rimless rounds in the High Wall type action. The trigger assembly is a real bear to remove and replace while retaining the spring/plunger assembly. Lee Shaver is the 'guru' it seems for the single shot rifles. He's very busy but does really good work. Perhaps the Browning folks have other suggestions.. I would contact their customer service department first..

[Rangr44]

Actually my B-78 wasn't too bad, once I got my mitts on the B-78 Field Service Manual. 

It may just have some gunk lodged in the extractor spring/plunger area, restricting it's travel/grab.

They pivot on the same axis as the lever, with the spring/plunger angling upward & slightly forward from the pivot.

I would first try a power flush there, with a straw-fed aerosol can of cleaner/lube.

[deltecs]

Well, I finally got the B78 back together again.  Since I first posted the extractor problem here, one of the GBO members sent me an exploded parts view and assembly instructions for the Browning B78.  I took the rifle apart and found the extractor plunger was broken, which prevented the cam effect on the extractor to remove the case.  I ordered new springs and plunger from Browning direct as some of the 1885 and B78 parts are interchangable.  I spent the last 5 months in my home in remote Alaska and hadn't the chance to pick up my mail until a couple of weeks ago.  Today I installed the new plunger, spring and put it back together.  Yes, the trigger assembly is a bear to get back together correctly without forcing it.  I sure was glad to have some instructions for disassembly and assembly handy for reference.  Anyway, all works as designed and am ready to put it on the range.  However, the range behind my house still has over 5' of snow and is a bit difficult to get to the target holders, so will have to wait until it melts.  I need to re load some ammo too, but will do that at the time of sighting in to find an accurate load.  As you can tell, I'm kind of anxious in anticipation to put it through the paces.  Thanks for all those who assisted me in this repair.  Sure appreciate it.