Replica Arms Colt Walker Ball Size

[parrothead]

I bought a Replica Arms Colt Walker awhile ago and I finally got around to shooting it. I tried my .44 caliber round ball and they just drop into the cylinder openings. I read the Walkers needed larger round ball so I ordered some .457 ROA round ball. Tried those and they just dropped into the cylinder too. I got my micrometer out and the openings in the cylinder are actually .46. Looking at TOW and Dixie their round ball goes from .457 to .48. Does anyone have suggestions as to what to use in this revolver???

Thanks in advance!

 

[ccmountainman]

Some older replica manufacturers weren't very quality controlled.
You might have to go to a custom mould manufacturer.
Try using a split ball gauge in the barrel first.
Go about 1 inch in from the muzzle.
See what the land to land measurement is first.
Possibly the original owner bored the chambers and went too big.
If the barrel is correct at .448 or less, then not a lot of options. Have to locate another cylinder.
But if the barrel is also oversized, then a custom round ball mould from accurate moulds, would be an option. http://www.accuratemolds.com/
They will make the mould to your specs.
Allow about .002 over size to allow for shaving a bit of lead off as you load.
They are pricey though.
Double cavity steel about $200 without handles.
Otherwise if Dixie and TOW offer them .462 to .465

 

[Wes/Tex]

That's a bit odd since most of Replica Arms imported revolvers usually ran to small sizes, like .447" on many of the early guns. I may have been opened by a previous owner of just an oops through the inspector's bench. No idea...if they're the same, order or cast balls roughly .005" larger than chamber size!

 

[Many Klatch]

Jeff Tanner in England makes custom brass round ball moulds in any size. I think the last one cost me about $55. The mold was sitting in my mailbox a week after I ordered it. He only takes Paypal as payment.

 

[parrothead]

Barrel is the correct caliber size - it is just the cylinder that is over sized. I would consider replacing the cylinder but have read that the Uberti cylinders will not work with any other maker. I considered a 45lc conversion cylinder but don't like the length of travel in the cylinder before the slug reaches the barrel. If it is warm this weekend I think I will try using the .457 round ball with small patches to see if that works.

 

[nhmoose]

Get a mold that makes a ball bigger than the cylinder (.01 or .02) and it may shot great when it starts shaving upon loading.

Never mind the barrels bore diameter at this point.