I'd like to get 45-70 single shot reproduction (likely Italian made, probably something in the Dixie Gun inventory just to give you a range of things I know about) for shooting smokeless cartridges at long range. I reload light (as in charge, not bullet weight) lead loads already.
I currently own an actual Springfield trapdoor made in 1886, but every time I pull the trigger I feel like I'm abusing the gun. It shows no signs of fatigue or extra wear, but it's almost 130 years old. Also, it is just not all that accurate despite trying a lot of different reloads (I'd say 30% of my groups are 3" or less at 100 yards, and 70% are 5-6", the variation is frustrating).
I'd like to get something for less than $1500, preferably closer to $1000. I'd like something with a slightly thicker barrel, so I can shoot longer strings without the barrel getting super hot. I only mention that because there are some thinner barreled hunter models that seem like they would get pretty hot at the range. I'd like the option for tang sights.
I like the Sharps, Rolling Block and High Wall repros, but my main concern is accuracy. I'd like the gun to be as accurate as possible. I'm not worried about shooting really hot loads or jacketed loads. I'd just like to sling lead accurately.
What would you recommend?
I currently own an actual Springfield trapdoor made in 1886, but every time I pull the trigger I feel like I'm abusing the gun. It shows no signs of fatigue or extra wear, but it's almost 130 years old. Also, it is just not all that accurate despite trying a lot of different reloads (I'd say 30% of my groups are 3" or less at 100 yards, and 70% are 5-6", the variation is frustrating).
I'd like to get something for less than $1500, preferably closer to $1000. I'd like something with a slightly thicker barrel, so I can shoot longer strings without the barrel getting super hot. I only mention that because there are some thinner barreled hunter models that seem like they would get pretty hot at the range. I'd like the option for tang sights.
I like the Sharps, Rolling Block and High Wall repros, but my main concern is accuracy. I'd like the gun to be as accurate as possible. I'm not worried about shooting really hot loads or jacketed loads. I'd just like to sling lead accurately.
What would you recommend?