Fabricating large bore Rimfire Cartridge Cases

[ndnchf]

Actually converting large bore (larger than .22 cal) cartridge cases from centerfire to rimfire. Perhaps something a little different for the Fabrication & Techniques forum, but I thought some of you might find this interesting.

I've been collecting and shooting antique rifles for 40+ years and I shoot them all. I'm at the point where I really enjoy the challenge of getting a long forgotten or neglected cartridge rifle shooting again. In some cases these are rimfires, of the very early 1860-1885 period. Including cartridges such as .32, .38. .44 or .50 caliber rimfire. I've come up with a process that works for me to convert existing brass centerfire cartridge cases to rimfire that allows me to shoot these old timers.

I made a two-part video showing the process - in this case I was making .44 long rimfire for an 1860s period Ballard sporting rifle. Here are the videos:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Lastly, a video shooting the Ballard rifle with these cartridges:

 

[cvairwerks]

Neat process. I've got a 56 Spencer, but no way would I even think of shooting it, even if ammo was available.....Launching that 350 grain bullet down range has got to let you it's leaving the barrel.

 

[ndnchf]

I have a .56-50 Spencer rifle that I swapped in a centerfire breech block. I shoot it regularly with black powder loaded cartridges. It is great fun and very accurate.

 

[drz rider]

Great stuff!! thanks for sharing this, I had no idea about large rimfire cartridges, learning something new about old stuff is cool!!

 

[ndnchf]

Yes, there were many different sizes of rimfire cartridges 150+ years ago. Here is another one I just made - a .50 caliber rimfire for a model 1865 Remington navy single shot pistol. An original cartridge and my shop made version.

 

[ndnchf]

Neat process. I've got a 56 Spencer, but no way would I even think of shooting it, even if ammo was available.....Launching that 350 grain bullet down range has got to let you it's leaving the barrel.

When I do my part, my Spencer does its part. It is quite pleasant to shoot.

 

[turbowoodworker]

Great videos on an interesting topic. Thanks.