Two different lengths of T/C nipples

[JohnShuster]

I have two different nipples that fit my T/C New Englander. The shorter one seems to allow the hammer to hit the cap more squarely, and that is the one I will use.

Does the longer one belong on another T/C rifle? It has a single band engraved on the cap shaft.

John

 

[necchi]

Just different makers,
About 25 companies make 1/4x28 threaded nipples.
Use the one that works best for you.

It's a good idea to check if it is indeed being struck full perimeter.
Take some lipstick or another transfer compound and put some on the nipple face.
Lower the hammer on too the nipple then look inside the hammer cup to see how much of the lipstick transferred.
Ideally you should see a full ring/circle left inside the cup.

 

[JohnShuster]

Thanks. No lipstick in my wife's armory, so I'll get creative and use the Permatex high temp lube I use on my RB molds.

 

[bpd303]

You can also use plain white paper. Place the paper over the nipple, lower the hammer & lightly tap it, should show a ring on the paper.

 

[Barry Duggan]

It's a good thing they come in different lengths too. I have two barrels for my gun. The .45cal barrel has a recess around the nipple thread area and needs a long, what I consider standard, length nipple. The .50cal does not have a recess and must have a shorter nipple. Just find the size that works, and go down the road bustin' bugs.