1863 Springfield ?

[Robert]

I just recently came into possesion of one, at first I thought it was worth a lot of money, but as it turns out it isnt very valueable in the condition it is in.  All the moving parts work and seem solid, bit the bore is completely gone.  How can I break through from the nipple to the breech and get the 'ignition path' (i dont know what it is called) cleared and open?  I have cleaned down the bore, and have cleaned out the nipple as best I can figure, but still not through.  I used a rod to test the depth of the barrel to see if it is possibly loaded and it dosent seem to be.  I was hoping I could load this thing with a small charge and just a paper wad to make it go Boom just for fun.  My Traditions rifle has a screw in the side to clear it out if it is jambed, but these dont have anything like that.

[gunnut69]

Is this an original??  If so I'm not sure your proposal is wise.  That said the breach is a 'bolster' forge welded to the barrel but the nipple is screwed into this bolster.  Removing the nipple should allow a pipe cleaner access to the breech area.  Cleaning can be done from the muzzle and to start everything I would reccomend a nice soak in kerosene(No.1 Diesel) to lubricate things a bit..  I would try to avoid destroying the nipple, as history is not replaceable and after all, firecrackers ARE cheap...  A nice piece of history, once carried by someone into harms way..  I would lightly clean and preserve a bit, then put it out to pasture.  Perhaps over the mantle where from time to time one might set and wonder who carried it and where.  Did they survive?  Truly, if only it could speak...although I suppose to me it does.  good luck from the gunnut69

[Robert]

It IS an original.  1863 model, dated 1864.  Rear sight and ramrod are missing.  The receiver plate is fairly bright and shiny, can clearly see all markings and the eagle clutching arrows and a tree branch in its talons.  Just barely can make out the markings that were on the stock with a loupe.    Do you think it would risk damage to just pop musket caps?  I really didnt want to try reefing on the nipple to get it out and clean, I was trying to get through without disturbing it.  Seems strong though, all the screws turn easily, and spring catches that hold the 3 barrel bands all work nicely, I have removed it from the stock to clean it.  Havent used anything abrasive, just some wd-40 and a soft cloth.

[gunnut69]

You may try air pressure on the nipple to blow away the fouling in the breech...  If all you want is to pop caps there's no need to do anything other than provide a nipple and clean after...  If a sqib load is desired a flash channel will be needed..  gunnut69

[Robert]

I'll try that, I need to get my compressor out and see if it works for a job anyway........