Drum help

[Gtrubicon]

Hello,Last week I received a brand new 32 cal barrel made by Ed Rayl. It’s 3/4” across the flats and has a breach plug installed. I want to install a powder drum and build a percussion rifle. My question is, does anyone make a drum smaller than 7/16” diameter to fit such a small barrel? I’m going to order a Davis Goulcher lock without provision for a drum so i can file to fit. 7/16 diameter powder drums are readily available, would that look ok on this barrel? The flats of the barrel are right at 5/16”. It’s ready to draw file and finish. The stock is also on its way, I ordered a Vincent style half stock from Pecatonica, I only had them inlet the barrel channel and ramrod. I have looked and have not found much in the way of smaller powder drums. Any leads or advice is much appreciated.

 

[The Crisco Kid]

Any one who can run a lathe can make a drum. The problem you may run into by making a smaller one is that it will be too small to hold the nipple. I'd just install the drum you have and not worry about it being a little larger than the barrel flat. It sounds like you're starting off on a neat project.

 

[Gtrubicon]

I’m looking forward to getting going on it. I should have the stock in 2 weeks, I’m going to place an order today at Track for some of the little stuff. I’m going to make my own trigger guard, toe plate, side plate and such.

 

[2 shots]

look at track of the wolf they have 1/2 inch. i recommend getting a blank and the drilling jig.

 

[Phil Coffins]

Use a larger one and file a flat for the nipple, then file any extra metal at the points that you want. I haven’t seen a rule that said a drum must be round.

 

[Sam squanch]

I’ve seen drums that were filed square, and hexagonal.

 

[Gtrubicon]

I like all the suggestions, thanks. I ordered a 1/2’ drum. I like the idea of filing a flat for the nipple and possible shaping it some.

 

[Gtrubicon]

Another question, what nipple size should I thread the drum for, I’d like it to be set up for nipples that are readily available. I was thinking 1/4x28. What say you?

 

[Phil Coffins]

Yep.

 

[Gtrubicon]

Thanks Phil, I appreciate your insight.

 

[slwnbp]

Another question, what nipple size should I thread the drum for, I’d like it to be set up for nipples that are readily available. I was thinking 1/4x28. What say you?

1/4 - 28 would be a very good choice. I also like the idea of the 1/2 drum filed flat.

 

[2 shots]

watch the wall thickness when filing

 

[Chuck Tiller]

Another question, what nipple size should I thread the drum for, I’d like it to be set up for nipples that are readily available. I was thinking 1/4x28. What say you?

1/4 x 28 for Thompson Center is a short shank nipple both top and bottom. They are commonly available in box stores.

 

[longcruise]

This is an interesting project. Looking forward to following along. Must be planning on it being pretty heavy with needing casters!

 

[tallPercshooter]

I see pics of lots of quality custom rifles where the edge of the drum is above the corner of the octagon barrel - where the drum meets the barrel. Looks OK to me and I'd rather have a nice thick drum with full nipple threads than a small one that is thinner.