New to Percussion rifles need advice

[monkr]

I want to get into the bp rifle shoot. Have a rem 1858 that I enjoy shooting. Came across a rifle I don't anything about them but don't want to put alot of money into it until I'm sure. This is from the add and I quote "Connecticut Valley Arms Kentucky Rifle caliber .45 Perc. The bore on this assembled kit muzzleloader shows sharp crisp rifling which warrants the time spent to make it somewhat more attractive. There is plenty of wood left on the stock, and with a few hours, and some sandpaper the rifle will look as good as it shoots. "
Do you think it maybe a good starter, it is really cheap under a $100.00. Appreciate any help you could give me.

 

[CoyoteJoe]

Yes! I have gotten a couple of botched kit builds and reworked them into decent, not perfect but decent looking and good shooting guns. CVA no longer builds real muzzleloaders but "Traditions" has several models very similar to the old CVA's and you'll find prices for a new kit start at more than $200. If you happen to need any parts for it there are probably Traditions parts that will work. For the price you can't go far wrong.

 

[ebiggs1]

Go for it! It will be the beginning of the journey.

 

[LeMat1856]

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. june 13 / 08:56

i have two 'hobby blackpowder gunsmith' books that i got off the web for $10-15 each.

there's more to these projects than meets the eye.. you need woodworking tools, knowledge of staining and finishing, possibly files for metalwork, blueing/browning for the barrel, measuring tools, possibly chisels and drill bits, etc., and at least level 1 skills (dixie rates their kits as 1 = beginner, 2 = intermediate, 3 = advanced).

as much as i love blackpowder and the thought of being a bp gunsmith, i'd recommend you do some reading and get a few photographs to post here so some of the master craftsmen can tell you just how much work you're actually getting into.

on the other hand, droping $100 on an "assembled kit" probably won't break the bank and could be the perfect way to learn and save a bundle.

can you get any photos ?

~d~

 

[marwin95]

If the kit is indecent shape, and you have a real interest it should be worth your time and effort. I started with a TC Hawken which was also a kit begun, and never completed. It was an excellent learning experience.

I agree that you most likely will require some additional tools. Some of the items needed are different than what is owned by a well equipped Handyman.

 

[ohio ramrod]

Years ago I used to assemble four or more of those kits every year for the local Amish boys to use deer hunting. The locks usually need smooothed up with a tool stone and some of the earlier barrels had a tight spot in them ( I assume from clamping in the manufacturing process) but they all were decent to good shooters. Those with the "Jugar " barrels had a deeper rifling and were better suited for round ball.As for parts many of the traditions rifle parts are interchangable .I would consider the deal worth going for! :hmm:

 

[rafterob]

If the bore looks good and the lock functions well it is sure worth the money. Make sure the lock holds at 1/2 and full cock.The older CVA locks were susceptible to the sear nose breaking. They are good shooters.

 

[HOGGHEAD]

This is just an opinion. But if you are new to this-then I would avoid the purchase unless he gave you the rifle. You really do not know what kind of cost you are getting into. And I see used MZ's all the time in great shape for not much more money. So I can not see putting $100 into a "pig in the poke" when just a little more money will get you a decent quality rifle in good shape?? Just an opinion. But if you want a "kit" gun, then buy a "kit gun", not an unknown. Tom.`