REPLICAS

both got Remington 1858 .44 cal. Sile replicas imported from Italy by Navy Arms. A store had opened up in town specializing in the latest BP guns and accessories. A resurgence in the BP guns and hunting was in full swing. We often walked, rode our horses, or trail bikes all over exploring and having fun. Our parents allowed us to take .22 RF handguns with only "rat shot" as they figured we wouldn't accidentally shoot something afar. This was true, a sparrow much farther than 20' was pretty safe. We quickly learned to hide out some regular ammo in the barn. (we were devious children) How we talked them into letting us both run loose and have these cannon is still a mystery.

The Cap & Ball guns really taught us a lot and kindled a life long interest in history, firearms, and handgunning. We shot those at squirrels, snakes, turtles, birds, and one unlucky cottontail that we drew blood from. The guns grouped pretty well, maybe 6" or so at 25 yds. but it was a foot high and 6" to one side via the fixed sights. I later had an adjustable rear added to mine, my first custom) but it only helped a little as I'd learned where it hit by then. The gunsmith used the rear sight off a Browning rifle, screws on both sides, loosen one, tighten the other for windage. He brazed some brass atop the front sight and made me a taller bead too. Sadly mine was stolen when I was 17, my buddy still has his.

They were an important part of my firearm training.