I have a beautiful old hammer Cape gun that I'm thinking of getting in the field with if I can't sell it. It is currently listed on gunbroker:
https://www.gunbroker.com/item/838769537I did a chamber cast and found the bore diameter to be 0.447" or 11.38mm. Any suggestions for a source of bullets would be appreciated.
The gun came with a slightly trimmed and formed .45/70 casing in the chamber so it appears I can make the brass without too much difficulty. But,
obtaining bullets may be the stopper.
Thanks for any help.
Jim Stanley
It sounds like you have a 11.4x50R Werndl. Check with Buffalo Arms they have cast bullets from .446-.452.
RCBS 44-370-FN mould for 43 Mauser. 370 gr FN @ .446".
I have bullets, or could cast some up for you if need be.
A fella might get some mileage out of paper patching with that one. Figure 9# onionskin (.0025 dry, shrinks to .002" after drying). Bullet diameter might run around bore minus about .004", double wrapped and lubed....boom!
Craigster,
I would be happy to buy some bullets from you. I would not need more than 100 to start, maybe just 50. I will have to get a set of dies made, and from the fellow's website, they are way behind on orders. So, no rush if you don't have any sitting around. Let me know how much you need for the bullets and shipping and I can send payment or use Paypal.
Since I can't find any proof marks on the gun I'm going to use black powder and play it safe.
Digital Dan, I'd just make a mess of trying to paper patch the bullets. But, if no one buys the outfit, then I may get real serious about shooting the gun and try paper patching if I can't get decent accuracy with just the lubed bullets.
Thanks to both of you for taking interest.
Jim S.
Erich,
Thank you for the info. I'll check with CH 4D in Ohio and see if they list dies for a 11.4x50R Werndl. Wow, what an obscure caliber that sounds to be.
Jim S.
This place carries brass and dies, out of stock now, but worth a try.
https://www.buffaloarms.com/Other web sources say they use .348 Win brass as the rim is closer. The 45-70 the rim thickness and diameter need to be reduced. Cast Bullets Journal had an entire article on the cartridge in 2004.
Digital Dan, I'd just make a mess of trying to paper patch the bullets. But, if no one buys the outfit, then I may get real serious about shooting the gun and try paper patching if I can't get decent accuracy with just the lubed bullets.
Jim S.
If you decide to paper patch take a look at Paul Matthews' book, "The Paper Jacket". If you can't find one let me know. My copy is lightly worn....
OK Digital Dan. Craigster is going to get me fixed up with some bullets so I'm way ahead of where I was just a few days ago.
Jim S.
That is one beautiful firearm. I’m betting it would cost thousands to have a gun engraved like that today.
The Cape gun is headed for a new home as someone has bid on it. Thanks to all here who offered advice and compliments on a great old firearm.