Installing set trigger in an 1800’s original rifle

[Buckskinquin]

I recently purchased a rifle, that with a rear action Golcher lock and barrel that exhibits 2 UK proofing stamps. So, I figure it’s an original from the mid 1800’s. It shoots very accurately, but has a single action trigger with a considerable pull weight. Considering installing a single set trigger but hesitate to alter the original. Has anyone out there had a similar situation?

 

[54ball]

The lock could be tuned and/or the trigger bar adjusted. I would try that first.

 

[SDSmlf]

You may want to post photographs of what you have. Someone here has likely done something similar and may offer some suggestions.

 

[rich pierce]

If the lock has no fly but has a half cock notch it won’t work with a set trigger.

 

[Dusty_Traveler]

What rich said. Also, you can stone the surfaces of the full cock notch on the tumbler, and the sear contact to lighten the pull. Easy though, a little goes a long way.

 

[rich pierce]

What rich said. Also, you can stone the surfaces of the full cock notch on the tumbler, and the sear contact to lighten the pull. Easy though, a little goes a long way.

Also one needs to make sure that the trigger bow could handle a set trigger.

 

[Notchy Bob]

I agree with @rich pierce . Most of the antique sporting rifles I've examined that have double set triggers have no half-cock notch in the tumbler at all. The half-cock position is considered the "safety" on a sidelock muzzleloader. I don't recall handling an original with a single set trigger, but I expect the issue with the half-cock notch would be the same.

Not sure I would want to modify a functional original in that way, anyhow.

The trigger let-off can be improved with proper engagement of the sear nose in the full-cock notch. This requires careful stoning, but can make a tremendous difference. The one caveat would be with military guns. The tumbler typically has a different radius for the half-cock than full-cock. Difficult to explain, but you need a firm pull on the trigger to keep the sear nose from hitting the half cock notch, and there is only so much that these can be lightened, but I understand that a knowledgeable gunsmith can improve it some.

Notchy Bob

 

[Buckskinquin]

The lock could be tuned and/or the trigger bar adjusted. I would try that first.

That’s the route I’ve chosen to take, tuning the lock. The lock does have a fly and a solid half cock.