TOW Leman percussion kit question

[Russell420]

I'm considering the purchase of the Track of the Wolf Leman trade rifle percussion kit. The barrel lengths offered are 36 and 42 inches. I prefer the look of the 42 incher, but am concerned that it might be more than a little muzzle heavy, and lack the balance of a swamped barrel. TOW says the shorter length is the most popular. Anyone have one of these or an idea of the how unwieldy the 42 incher might be?

 

[lonewolf5347]

GM barrel, L&R lock, single trigger, figured maple stock, 1"x32" length barrel, brass buttplate/triggerguard...... 400.00 plus shipping... email for photos... good used rifle...

Russel I seen this add on the hide if you are interested funny I think it is the same rifle you are looking to purchase ,I could be wrong

 

[Russell420]

Thanks for the info, but I want to build one rather than buy a completed rifle. Anyone have any ideas about the barrel length question?

 

[Zonie]

Leman was building guns starting about 1830 and in production thru the 1850s. IMO the general trend at that time was towards the shorter barrels.

Of course, if you want the long barrel, who's to say your wrong?
I say this based on the idea that your building a full stock rifle. IMO, if your building a half-stock, the 42 inch barrel would look muzzle heavy.

If you are building the gun for You, then You are the only one you have to please.

 

[Doc Arroyo]

Russell-

My .50 caliber has a 42" barrel, but it is only a 7/8" barrel. A friend of mine has a J. Henry trade rifle with 42" long 1" 54 cal barrel and it is a flipin MOOSE.

On of the reasons that the shorter barrels were becoming more popular was it is really difficult to reload a 42" long barrel while on horse back!