Swiss percussion rifle

[TommyKid]

I just got this one the other day and still trying to find some info about it. I'm told it's a .52 cal....I haven't measured, yet. Good bore, except it's blocked at the breech with dirt/grime. I have the end of the barrel soaking in Purple Power in the sonicator (nipple removed and more Purple Power down the bore). It needs a lot of TLC.....

 

[LeeinVA]

Interesting shape to the stock.. I do like the rear sight elevation guage..

 

[Rifleman1776]

Long range Schutezen type maybe. Git it running and should be interesting.
Wondering if that little nib thing sticking up on the hammer has, or had, a use or if it is just decorative. Yep, that elevation thingy on the rear sight is also interesting.

 

[ohio ramrod]

Interesting gun. The twist appears to be a fast twist for elongated bullets used for long range shooting.And the elevation adjustment on the rear sight supports this. :idunno:

 

[TommyKid]

Took this one to the range today for a short session. I started with 70 grains of ffg, .50 ball and .018 patch at 25 yards. All shots were high and a bit horizontally spread. I found the patch from the first shot and it was pretty tore up and smoldering. The front sight is a replacement and I believe it's a bit too low. Even though the bore has a 1:32 twist, I was told that because of it's age, the gun was probably meant for patch/ball. Next time I'll have more time and start with a lower charge and thicker patch and work up. I have some .50 Buffalo bullets I may try for kicks, too. Any advise is appreciated.
Thanks,
Tom

 

[32 conical]

I've heard good things about that vent on the side of the bolster relieving air pressure upon firing. The deep grooves and rapid twist suggest it was for cloth patched picket bullets. I wouldn't try naked bullets until I was sure of the bore size. Too much chance of leading from an under-sized projectile. Found the picket bullet idea in Ned Roberts book on the muzzleloading cap lock match rifle. :yakyak: