Theories on this Charger Loader?

[5thBatt]

I'm sorry, but to me that looks like very worn Enfield rifling rather than Metford.

Not a shadow of a doubt in my mind on that.

Metford rifling does indeed look like worn Enfield rifling but with 7 grooves not 5, this barrel has 7 grooves so Metford rifling.

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[smle addict]

Yes, the rifling does appear worn. But it is seven groove which indicates metford rifling. I took it to the range last Friday and was surprised with how well it shoots. I fired this 10 shot string (1st round sighting) and put the next nine rounds into a respectable 2-1/2 inch group at 100 yards with handloads off of sandbags. Not too bad for a 125 year old rifle. I did notice I had so seat the bullet way out to get respectable groups. There is a fair amount of throat erosion.

[nijalninja]

I did notice I had so seat the bullet way out to get respectable groups.

Do the rounds still fit in the mag that far out? Also I would be over the moon to see an old girl like that pull that performance. I bet you are glad you jumped at it.

[smle addict]

The rounds barely fit... I have them seated to 3.080 overall. The bullets a just a hair form the mag, but they still feed. This rifle shoots .312 diameters well. Anything in .311, the groups opened up substantially.

Thanks for the comments! I was a little hesitant to buy it (I have a hundred "honey do's" to tackle), but it made me happy finding a rare rifle that still shoots.

[Surpmil]

Metford rifling does indeed look like worn Enfield rifling but with 7 grooves not 5, this barrel has 7 grooves so Metford rifling.

My interest level, or least attention level must be waning of late!