Adjusting a lock on a percussion musket

[Embalmer]

Ok now that we have a BP forum, got a question thats been buggin me for a couple years..

I have a euro arms 1861 springfield, and is one of my fav guns to use for reenacting. Few years ago I had to replace the stock as the other broke from what ever. Well since I replaced it, the first safety position on the lock is alot lower than it used to be (just barely can fit a cap in there now), then to pull back to full cock is a huge distance from safety position.. Now I dont know what in hell happened, but do recall the first position used to be a lil further back. Any ideas??? I havent pulled the lock out since this time, as its very tight in the stock, and am affraid of breaking this stock (did it to a 1853 enfield )

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[threepdr]

Matt,

Assuming that the lock fits correctly against the bolser, a new stock would not affect the position of the half cock. That is determined by where the half-cock notch is on the tumbler. Compare with someone else's Euroarms M61 and see if there is any difference. Also compare to an original. If an original offers more room between the hammer nose and the nipple, you might consider replacing the tumbler with an original or a new made tumbler designed to fit an original lock. That is the only thing you can do to adjust half-cock position. Those can be purchased from S&S Firearms or Lodgewood Manufacturing. If you do get an original tumbler you will also have to change the hammer screw as it uses English threads instead of Metric as on the Euroarms.

Not sure how you could have broken a stock by removing the lock? The best was to remove a tight lock (which is a good thing by the way) is to unscrew the side lock screws till they are almost clear of the threads. Then tap the screw heads with a soft mallet or peice of wood. That will push the lock out far enough for you to remove it.

Good Luck

[Embalmer]

LOL I learned that trick of loosening the screws a bit and tapping out, AFTER i broke a stock Ill take the spring apart tomorrow or so, and will check. best of my memory I could swear it did go to halfcock alot further than it did, and do have 5 other euro arm long arms, all have halfcocks about same position alot further back... I shall investigate and get back to you.

Thanks

[Timmer]

Sounds like either the tumbler or the trigger sear is broken. Most likely the trigger sear. In either case pull the lock and check for a broken part.