I wonder if bullet shape and tolerances were/are part of it? My Paul Jones Creedmoors are a bore riding design, and won't chamber unless I blow tube or wipe. My Brooks Postell bullets are much more tolerant, and can usually go several shots before chambering becomes difficult.

Did the original Sharps have a bit of freebore?

Paul

Stupidity has its way, while its cousin, evil, runs rampant.