Ballard Rifling??

[dfariswheel]

I no longer have many of my old references, and I have a chance to buy an older post-war Marlin 39-A with Ballard Rifling.

I'm quite familiar with Marlin's "Micro-Groove" rifling and the later 39 series rifles, but I've long since forgotten exactly what Ballard rifling is compared to standard rifling.

Also, accuracy-wise, how does Ballard stack up to Micro-Groove?
Thanks.

 

[Colt46]

Ballard has fewer, but deeper cut grooves

Somebody correct me if I'm wrong, but I think that the micro groove rifling doesn't do well with cast lead bullets. The Ballard was employed in their 45/70 rifles specifically so cast bullets could be used.

 

[AStone]

Df, I've been reading a lot about Marlin levers for a few weeks. Probably going to buy one soon (as early as tomorrow's gun show ... if I find the one that says, "take me home").

Anyway, mine will probably be a 336 in .30-30, and hence a microgroove, instead of a .45/70 (and hence a Ballard). Still, I've been reading about the distinction between microgroove and Ballard out of curiousity.

Here's an interesting page on the distinction.

This one is equally as interesting.

Neither page will necessarily answer your question, but seem to provide useful background.

Of course, usual caveats apply (given that this IS the internet ).

Nem