1873 side plates

[ABOYNAMED SUE]

Any one know how to remove the side plates from an 1873 rifle after removing the main screw from the left side plate?

[Forty Rod]

Put the screw back in the hole and trun it in a half turn.  Tap it gently.  The right plate should drop free.  Remove the screw and tap the left plate from the open side.  They aren't in real tight and should come clear easy.

[ABOYNAMED SUE]

Ha! How stupid am I?  I've even done this before!  Must be old age catching up to me.  Thanks a mill.

[Forty Rod]

You're welcome, and don't let it get to you.  I'm at an age where I'm really surprised when I do remember something.   

[litl rooster]

watch them edges on them plates they'll cut you

[Forty Rod]

Very true.  While you have it apart you might consider rounding the frame just ahead of the loading gate for the same reason.  That sucker will take very thin "deli style" slices of thumb every time.

Same with most Winchester-style riles with a loading gate.