Looking for some BP help in Chicago

[Miterek]

I have a boot pitol that I believe to be from the 1840's. I have completely cleaned the pistol, and believe that it can be fired. I however know NOTHING about BP pistols, and the safe way to fire them. I was curious if there was anyone in the Chicagoland area, that would be willing to help me fire this pistol. I believe the caliber is around a .38. just a guess though, as that was the size bore brush used to clean the barrel. I would shoot the pistol first, to ensure that any blown off fingers would be my own. After it is deemed safe the "helper" would be free to fire the pistol as well.

Or am I completely insane for wanting to do this? also, there are wooden grips, ans sideplate of course.

Matt

 

[runs.for.beer]

Fwiw . . .

I realize that this is not what you are asking for, but I thought I would speak-up, just in case.

If after having a gunsmith give you the ok to fire the pistol, I could provide the needed shooting supplies for you to blast away at a range. I have not fired any single-shoot black powder pistols, but I have had a experience building and shooting percussion and flint kit rifles.

I respectfully suggest that your fingers, etc., are worth going to the trouble of having a pro take a look and deciding if it is safe to shoot (stepping down from my soapbox now, sorry).

Anyways, good luck with your pistol.

 

[Busyhands94]

i think it might be a .36, not a .38. looks like your typical boot pistol from the olden days, the bag grip, the over hammer box lock. looks like a great find