Percussion Lock Damaged in Fire

[Limestone]

Recently saw an 1840's Springfield lock for sale that had been in a fire. It was rusty and had a heavy scale on it. Don't know if it was in a safe or hanging on the wall during the fire. Here is my question I know the main and sear springs would be under tension while in the lock. Lets say for conversation purposes the fire got up to 800 to 1200 degrees for several hours. Would the springs loose there temper or spring strength? Also would the other internal parts tumbler, bridle and sear be damaged? Was tempted to buy, but was not sure if it was now just a relic. This might be a question for a blacksmith. Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

 

[Sam squanch]

I’d get it at a reduced price, it may be ok. Springs may need to be retempered and internals hardened. Bring a small file with you and see if you can file part of the tumbler. If it won’t file, it’s probably ok. See if they will drop the price due to condition.

 

[Phil Coffins]

I would expect all parts are soft and will need reworked. Depending on how deep the scaling is the real problem as that means there’s less material to work with. What do you hope to do with the lock in the end?

 

[Limestone]

I would expect all parts are soft and will need reworked. Depending on how deep the scaling is the real problem as that means there’s less material to work with. What do you hope to do with the lock in the end?

The plan for the project is to put together a replica of an 1842 Palmetto. I want get a lock plate from the Rifle Shop, and use the internal parts of a donor lock plate. The donor plate was going to help with the correct layout for drilling and tapping TRS lock plate. All still in the planning stages. Also plan to use steel barrel bands instead of brass. Thank you for the advice on the value of the rusty internal parts.