Joshua Hopkins
32 Cal
Hi! I purchased my first firearm about a week ago; it's an antique (Hawkens?) percussion rifle supposedly from the 1830's-40's. Before I go shooting with it, I was hoping I could get some answers to a few questions. Firstly, it appears to have a bit of wood chipping around the lock. A few people have told me that this shouldn't matter too much, but I'd like to ask you lot if you think it would affect the integrity of the weapon to the point that it wouldn't be wise to shoot it. If so, can I use wood putty or somesuch to repair it?
Secondly, what percussion cap would a rifle of it's age take? I don't really know how to measure the nipple, but I'm tempted to say musket caps if it's as old as claimed. I was also told that a grain or two of powder can substitute a percussion cap if you place it near the nipple. That sounds less than ideal to me, but I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Thanks,
Joshua
Secondly, what percussion cap would a rifle of it's age take? I don't really know how to measure the nipple, but I'm tempted to say musket caps if it's as old as claimed. I was also told that a grain or two of powder can substitute a percussion cap if you place it near the nipple. That sounds less than ideal to me, but I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Thanks,
Joshua