45 Rough Rider Chamber Diameter

[Ed Gallop]

I am not sure but it appears lead build up is in the barrel end of the cylinder chambers. I have cleaned extensively and with a brush in a low speed drill. My suspicion is based on 2 things. 1. Excessive leading of the barrel even with light loads (6 gr) of Unique behind 255 cast bullets (with about 10% tin). 2. The top ring of the 454 dia cast bullet will fit into the base of the barrel but not in the chamber (barrel end).

I am not very knowledgeable but suspect the bullet would be shaved smaller than the barrel and this causes leading. Thought about applying a tourch to melt the lead (if it is there) but am afraid to do it without knowing the consequencies.

My first 30 to 40 rounds in the 45 were loaded with the specs on a web site saying 10 gr of Unique was a good load. I loaded with 9.6 gr. Leading was awful and it took forever to get the barrel cleaned.

If someone with a 45 Rough Rider and 255 dia bullets could tell me if the bullet fits as described above... I'd be beholding. Might have to spend $65.00 for another cylinder. Ed.

 

[Old Fuff]

I suspect that the chamber throats may be undersized. If so they can be reamed. If the throats are oversized the gun manufacturer owes you a new cylinder. I would return the revolver and let them fix it.

 

[Ed Gallop]

I received a prompt reply from Heritage that request I send the revolver to them for analysis. It will go out tomorrow morning. Thanks.

I believe the cylinder is sized for 451 dia and the barrel is 454. Hard to imagine how they did that. Ed.

 

[Old Fuff]

I believe the cylinder is sized for 451 dia and the barrel is 454. Hard to imagine how they did that. Ed.

It isn't too uncommon in any number of revolver brands. The chambering reamer(s) wear as they are used, and these days inspection isn't always the best. The bore is on the high side (.452" is usually standard) but not out of spec.

 

[TallPine]

My first 30 to 40 rounds in the 45 were loaded with the specs on a web site saying 10 gr of Unique was a good load.

Ouch! That's a fairly warm load - well above "cowboy" standards

Soft bullets + excessive fps could equal barrel leading.

I load 10gr Unique with hardcast bullets for my "old" Vaquero. IIRC, that yields about 1000fps.