.41 Long Colt sources?

Q

Quincunx

New member
Hello, all!

Just recently purchased a Colt Army Special in .41 Long Colt. Serial number (if I indeed have it correct) indicates it was made in 1916. I mainly purchased it for historical value and as a very occasional shooter. Having scoured the web, including the various auction sites, I have found six companies on the web who offer factory ammo: Ten-X, Cowboy Needs, Ultramax, Old Western Scrounger, Buffalo Arms, and Quality Cartridge. Having no experience with any of these manufacturers, I'd appreciate hearing from those who have (either positive or negative). As these shells are, um, a bit pricey, I'd like to limit the "experimental" spending I have to do. I don't mind paying for good quality, but having had to burn the backyard money tree for firewood last winter I'd like to get the best value I can. Thank you!

Chris Murphy
 
Except for Cowboy Needs, which I haven't heard of, the other manufactors make great ammo. The .41 Colt being obsolete is going to be expensive. Handloading is the only way to do any affordable shooting.
 
The big question is how much you want to shoot that gun? If you just want to try it, settle for some of that expensive ammo. If you want to shoot it very much, the only economical answer is to buy a couple of hundred rounds and/or new cases, and reload.

But handloading for the .41 Long Colt cartridge is pretty tricky for reasons I don't really want to try to detail here. RCBS did have dies for it on special order, but I know of no molds for the .386 inside lubricated bullets used in the later ammunition. You could try to find .41 Short Colt cases and load the .401 bullet for the .38-40, not a very satisfactory solution, but one that will work.

Jim
 
I have a set of 41LC loading dies (RCBS, appear unused) and a brand new in the box .386 Lyman mould (Heel based bullet) that I'd entertain offers on if interested.

Oh and 48 pieces of brass. (New or once fired. I'd have to look.)
 
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