what to look for in an used BP Pistol

[revolverman357]

I would really like to purchase a BP pistol, probably a steel framed 1858 remington repro. I have seen lot's of used ones at gun shows. What should I look for (mechanical wise) in a used BP Pistol? Same as modern revolver?

 

[mykeal]

Mechanically, look for the same things: end shake, trigger pull/drift, action timing.

The difference with bp guns is cleanliness. Black powder fouling causes and can conceal some very serious problems like pitting and rust. And you often find bp guns that are a little "dirty" at auctions/gun shows. If it's major dirty, and the dirt doesn't want to wipe off, pass it up.