Dreyse and Chassepot cartridges

I received a private mail asking for info. on making cartridges for the Dreyse needle rifle, but I am publishing the response here, as one of the objects of a forum is to spread knowledge around.

I have no experience with the Dreyse rifles, which fetch colossal prices over here, being regarded as a kind of national treasure - and not requiring a licence!

However, there is a small group of enthusiasts who have the time and money to shoot these rifles. Having visited their annual shoot, I can assure you that they really know how to feed these old bangers, and I therefore recommend these links as being "state of the art".

http://www.schmids-zuendnadelseite.de/zn_modelle.html

http://www.tonis-zuendnadelseite.de/...elpatrone1.htm

If you follow the link on these sites, you will also find info on making Chassepot cartridges.

I seem to remember reading something on the manufacture of these cartridges. Could have been from any number of non-internet sources, though! Somehow, one of the Cartridges of the World editions is at the forefront of mental suggestions.

I shoot a Chassepot - and still have my eyebrows!

The best way forward is to make "simplified" ammunition using the method shown here ...

UNE CARTOUCHE IGNIFUGEE POUR LE FUSIL CHASSEPOT

OK it's in French - use the translate button!

I use gummed brown paper tape from the Hobby store and leave out the semolina. 75gn of medium black seems to work well with the .45 bullet from the Lee 90374 mould. I also use the .45 cork wads from Midway.

You must ensure that the rubber obturator on the end of the bolt is in good nick. You can make these from tap washers.. the French ones are best, but 1 + 1/2 tap washers from B & Q will do the job - honest! Unlike the Dreyse, the needle on the Chassepot usually lasts.. if you need to replace it you can make one from piano wire.
I would aslo advise following the trick shown in the above article with putting a small rubber disk on the needle between the headpiece and the bolt. It stops a lot of muck getting into the bolt. I cut the disks with a punch from old inner tube.

Finally - wipe/dip the round in bullet lube just before you load it.. I use bore butter - it looks vaguely obscene, but you don't get much fouling! I have shot my Chasse at 800m with surprisingly good results..

I have just missed getting my paws on a Dreyse for less than £1k! They are much more difficult to manage and are much less accurate than the Chasse...

Bonne Chance...!