2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms/Springfield Rolling Block Rifle

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Expert: - 1/23/2009


Question
I have aquired the above subject rifle and am a little confused on the size of ammo to be used for targeting.
On one side of the chamber is stamped, Springfield 1872, the other side is stamped with Model #1871. I was told that the 1871 model is chambered for 50cal. But when I recieved the rifle I was tolled it was a 45-70cal.  Which ammo would be correct for this rifle?

Answer
Hello, Richard…

This isn't a Second Amendment question, but before you do ANYTHING with your rifle, you should have it thoroughly checked by a competent gunsmith, if for no other reason than to prevent a dangerous accident. The firearm is old, and even if you try to shoot the correct ammunition, it might not be safe.

In all likelihood, if the right side of the receiver is marked "U.S. Springfield 1872," and the left side is marked "Model 1871," the piece is actually chambered in .50-70, an obsolete black powder cartridge.

Now whoever "tolled" {sic} you that it was chambered in "45-70Gov," may know something specific about the rifle, perhaps that it had been re-barreled/re-chambered for the .45-70 Government cartridge.

Get thee to a competent gunsmith before doing anything further.

And g'luck with your antique! After having the 'smith check it out, you might wish to have it appraised by someone knowledgeable in old arms.

2nd Amendment and Right to Bear Arms

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Dean Speir

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I can answer questions about Handguns, Rifles, Ammunition, the Firearms Industry, the "gunzine game," practical accessories for self-defense (CCW) handguns; rumor control on firearms myths, errata on the "gunshop grapevine."

I am NOT an Attorney, and nothing I provide here should be relied upon as legal advice. Therefore, please do NOT make inquiries about Criminal Justice issues... this is the Second Amendment topic.

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