I don't intend to hurt anyones feelings, but the subject of using the 1863 as a long range target rifle has come up in the past and most agree that the rifle is not meant to be. The reasons are obvious. The firearm is a military rifle with a huge hole in its pipe. The caliber and twist rate of the rifeling just don't cut it for long range shooting. But, what if?
What if someone used a .45 caliber pipe with a fast twist rate. I think the rifle should be able to keep up with its big brother the "74" at least out to 500 meters!
I know there are those that say leave the thing alone and use it as it was intended, and I am one of them! But, what if? What are your opinions?
I don't think I will ever own one, I am a carpenter with a growing family and they come first, but if I had the money to spare, I would do it. I want to see that cannon shine. I love the 1863. Maybe some day.
1863 Target Rifle ????
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bwbayless
- Posts: 118
- Joined: Wed Nov 26, 2003 7:22 am
- Location: Lebanon, Indian Nations, OK
Ionian,
I have an 1863 sporting rifle and if I can get a bullet mould made I'm gonna give what you suggest a try. Only the lack of money is holding me back. Also a 28" tube and 60 grains max. chamber. I think it will lob a bullet at least 500 meters reasonably accurate. We shall see..........maybe.
Bob
I have an 1863 sporting rifle and if I can get a bullet mould made I'm gonna give what you suggest a try. Only the lack of money is holding me back. Also a 28" tube and 60 grains max. chamber. I think it will lob a bullet at least 500 meters reasonably accurate. We shall see..........maybe.
Bob
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Ionian
- Posts: 4
- Joined: Tue Jul 01, 2003 8:04 pm
- Location: Lowell In.
Bob, is your 1863 chambered in .45 cal.? I think it would take a .45 with a fast twist rate to be able to shoot at 500 meters and beyond. It may be a little dificult to load, but I really don't see any problems with this setup working. Let us know how your rifle does when you get it ready. Anyone else?
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bwbayless
- Posts: 118
- Joined: Wed Nov 26, 2003 7:22 am
- Location: Lebanon, Indian Nations, OK
Ionian,
No it is .54 cal with a 1 in 48 twist. I think that if I can get a bullet made and work with it some it will fly 500 meters. I don't expect the accuracy of a .45 but I think it will be acceptable. I got into silhouette less than a year ago and believe it or not it is eating up all my shooting money.
Bob
No it is .54 cal with a 1 in 48 twist. I think that if I can get a bullet made and work with it some it will fly 500 meters. I don't expect the accuracy of a .45 but I think it will be acceptable. I got into silhouette less than a year ago and believe it or not it is eating up all my shooting money.
Bob