Finally sprung for a 1873 copy.

I love the clickety-clack-cling, so mechanical, smooth workings of the toggle links. I think the case colored octagon Guns are beautiful. But the 24” versions, while well balanced, carry like a pole in the woods. I bought a 19” saddle carbine, like the old Westerns. (Jim is wearing on my sense of reality) I looked at originals, various Italian variations, and even late Japan Winchester marked. The latter is probably the highest quality ever produced, period.

I worked a deal on a Navy Arms / Uberti that was probably 10-12 yrs. old. Basically new old stock, some buy and just never use!? I got a better deal on it because it is a .44-40 and less conventional as to ammo. Since I cast and load everything it’s all the same to me. I figure it will shoot the .429-.430 bullets I normally load in my custom .44-40 Super Blackhawk just fine. We sure will see.

I’m still looking to turn some of my extra “black guns” into funner lever guns, maybe some really old ones too!