[Jim101]

OK, what do I need to look for in a used BP pistol .44. I will mainly be looking for a used Uberti or Pietta 1858 Remington. I there any tell tale signs that I should look for? And for that type of pistol what would be a good price? Or am I just better off to buy one new? Big show tomorrow in Denton, Tx. I would appreciate any help...

Thanks,

Jim

[Across The Pond]

Hi Jim; I'm no expert but here's a few..

Barrel condition (1) - check for corrosion (BP and substitutes attract moisture, contain sufur and are therefore potentially corrosive)
Barrel condition (2) - check for muzzle or forcing cone damage etc.
Timing (1) - check for proper alignment of chambers with barrel
Timing (2) - check for tight cylinder lockup - cylinder should not show significant 'gouging' from the bolt dragging.
Worn nipples (sometimes called cones/tubes) - check that they have undamaged faces and if possible check they can be removed. The hole will corrode and wear over time, but it's hard to check without a wire gauge. Aftermarket nipples are available and if it has them, that's a bonus. Finally, although I dont have a Remington (yet!) I think I'd check that the cylinder pin can be removed easily.

Good luck, let us know how you get on!

Dave

[Jim101]

Dave,

Thanks, I'll be gong there with a "list" of what to look for from this site..

Jim

[sjohns]

Jim also cycle the pistol a few times, about ten or twelve by cocking them to full cock and lowering the hammer with you thumb. Check for alignment with the hammer and recess that the hammer falls into.

Some guns with hand diffculties leave the cylinder slightly out of alignment to where the bolt hasn't completely locked; it will fire but its shaving lead off the side or could do worse damage.

Guns like these need to have both the bolt and the hand looked at.

Just think of used guns to be like used cars....
every once in a while you get a real gem, but many times you inherit other person's problems.

Good hunting,
Scott