1863 US Springfield rifle

[MAC702]

Just acquired my first muzzleloader, but it was a moral imperative, as I had every US cartridge service rifle example back through the Trapdoor.

What's the best source for what I need to know on this rifle and the components to shoot it? Looks like I need .54 Minie bullets?

[oldfoneguy]

The US Springfield Rifiled Musket is .58 caliber. If it's an original I wouldn't shoot a 160 year old rifle speaking for myself. There are tons of reproductions on the market to serve as toys, an original is a piece of history and should be preserved as such.

On May 6th there was a Civil War Encampment in the town park walking distance from my house. 2 companies of militia mustered out near here in 1862 and it's been celebrated for years. Speaking to many of the reenactors they all have original Civil War collections but only use reproductions outside of their homes.

[MAC702]

I shoot my 1873 Trapdoor rifle often. Is there something about the extra ten years, or is it the blackpowder that makes it dangerous? I would think the muzzleloading design would be way stronger than the Trapdoor.

Thank you on the caliber correction. Now I don't remember where I read .54 caliber. Looks like I need .58 caliber stuff. I'll start looking.

[oldfoneguy]

I shoot my trapdoor as well not as often as the rest of the stable but several times a year. To me it's there are way more variables to go wrong with a muzzle loader than a cartridge firearm. Indeed modern black powder and it's substitutes even the percussion caps are more powerful than they were when that rifle was in service. A simple mistake in loading can be catastrophic and that old veteran deserves better.
As an example I load my 45-70 rounds with Hodgdon 777 FF bp substitute which works excellent. However it's more powerful than black powder and requires reduced loads. I load 60gr in the 45-70 which gives the power and velocity of 70gr BP. You must also ensure that all components especially the stock are in condition for shooting. To have that old warhorses stock splinter at the range would be a crime. Of course it's yours so do what you want. I'm giving you the advice I've given my own family regarding shooting antiques but do with it as you please.

[ssgross]

A simple mistake in loading can be catastrophic

I think this is exactly the point - but true of shooting any firearm. Where is that video of the guy's brand new springfield M1A that blew up in his face first time at the range? The firearm has no idea how old it is. Age only increases the chances of wear to a point outside serviceability. Carefully inspect all components are serviceable, and load with caution, starting at minimum safe levels. Shooting it has all the same concerns as any other firearm - make sure there are no cracks in the stock, bulges in the barrel, excessive pitting, active rust or obstructions in the bore, etc. Use proper projectiles - soft cast (20:1 or 30:1).

To have that old warhorses stock splinter at the range would be a crime.

Most certainly, but not necessarily just because of age. These old rifles and muskets were designed with stocks bedded their entire length, and even when brand new they were they brittle as a twig by design - until the whole assembly is properly mounted and clamped together. The full-length-bedded designs persisted all the way through the Krags and into the early 1903's. By the time of 1903 production, Springfield had learned a thing or two experimentally about bedding and how it affects accuracy. Lots to read about early practical understanding of barrel harmonics with the 1903 and the resulting bedding procedures - Hatcher's notebook has the details.
My point is, when considering shooting an old rifle, be sure to check for any loose fitting from age - from shrinkage of the wood over the years or possibly from fibers soaked with oils (lubricant, not finishing oils) that have deteriorated as a result. The forces from firing a loose gun will exploit the weakness of the design and ruin your stock. You can remedy to an extent (before firing!) with careful shimming to make all tight again as it should be. Other than these issues, or maybe the other oddities of fire or water exposure/damage, the wood doesn't know how old it is either.