Rodney Johnson
36 Cl.
Update: traded the CVA off because the nipple didn't line up with the hammer (someone had tried, unsuccessfully, to turn the drum in tighter using a channel-lock or pliers); and the threads in the drum for the nipple was seriously "wallered" out - the nipple was difficult to get started and was "wobbly" as it went into the orifice and only tightened up at the very end as the nipple seated against the drum. I found a Navy Arms .50 cal that is more period looking. The nipple and hammer alignment is really square. Chrome lined barrel that looks to be 1:48 twist (25-1/2" to 27" barrel, depending on how you measure). The only stamping on the barrel is "NAVY ARMS CO RIDGEFIELD NJ USA" on the right side, and ".50 CAL. 08338" serial number. Searched the internet and could not really find out when this rifle was made. No proof marks, no indication of the country where it may have been made. I think it may be a kit gun as the stock is completely polyed - inside and out and the fit and finish leaves much to be desired - but wood can be "fixed". The photo of the breech with what looks to be a big crack isn't a crack - it is a shadow of a ridge of metal - I did a double-take when I first saw it - examined the rifle with a 10X loupe and made sure it wasn't a fracture. Sorry about the pictures - I'm not good at putting them in the message very good.
