original 1859 sharps rifle

B

billyj

Inactive
Proud owner of an original 1859 sharps rifle . I am firing it using American Pioneer powder because of the difficulty of obtaining black powder.I am using 50 grains of powder to fire it, seem to work pretty good. 2 question am I hurting it by not using black powder ? Sharps has what is called an adjustable bouching,is this the same as a moveable sleeve which is found in most reproduction sharps and can it be clean the same way?
 
Hello, billyj..Now thats one I haven't heard of being fired in a long time! I do believe the original Sharps used a movable "bouching"..adjustable by a special tool threaded to cleaning rod..tapped down tight against breech-block. How effective is the gas sealing on yours? After all these years..I wonder if that thing will even budge? I have a Shilo Farmingdale 1863 percussion rifle in .45 which I purchased back in 77'..this uses the later Conant gas-seal plate..I have not noticed any leakage around breech when firing. Never used the American Pioneer..but I would caution to clean very well, with a water-based solvent..I have heard some of the subs are corrosive. Best of luck!
 
Thanks Idael Tool, gas seal seem to be tight , gun shoots fine.Iwas just trying to keep it that way.Dixie Gun Works has a sharps sleeve remover tool may give that a shot. would hate not to be able fire it.
 
These would be the people to ask:


American Pioneer Powder, Inc.
20423 State Road 7 #F6-268, Boca Raton, Florida 33498
Toll Free 888.756.7693


I just looked at their web page, looked at their FAQ, no special warnings about applications.
 
APP doesn't have any sulfur and won't cause any corrosion unless the residue is left in place which then absorbs moisture. It's a moderate strength powder that gains velocity with more compression.
 
Thanks for the help. Think I will stay with American Pioneer powder, and with any luck the sharps will be around and firing in an other fifty years.
 
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