Lightning rifle feeding problem

[Colt Fanning]

Hi,
I am restoring a first model lightning rifle in 38-40.  When the action is racked back strongly the lifter throws the nose of the bullet upward with such velocity that the bullet overshoots the breach.  With a slow gentle rack the bullet chambers normally.  Is there any adjustment to reduce the speed of the lift or some sort of drag to limit the upward motion of the bullet nose?
Regards
Colt

[Blackpowder Burn]

Yep, the adjustment is to not rack it as strongly!  

When I first got my USFA Lightning I'd read so much about racking it strongly to insure it functioned well, that I threw ammo back over my shoulder!  It took several months of regular shooting to learn to use it properly.  It's a major change in muscle memory from lever action rifles - but a nice, gentle stroke is all that's required.  Now Lightnings are my primary match rifle.  I have a Pedersoli and a USFA (both in 44-40), and am in the process of restoring an original Colt in 32-20.

They're a hoot once you learn to operate them properly.

[Blair]

Colt Fanning,

This problem is called "stove piping".
It seems to be particular to the Colt pump action rifles, but maybe seen, from time to time within 1892's.
I cannot began to say what the fix might be.
I have been told that bending some of the internal parts will help.
However, I will not do this on an original!!!
Maybe a repro, where spare parts are available, but not an original.
My best,
Blair

[Pettifogger]

The rising carrier is supposed to trap the round between the top of the carrier and the bottom side of the cartridge guides.  Pump the slide all the way to the rear with a dummy round on the carrier.  Then reach in with your fingers and see if the round is pressed against the guides or if there is some slop.  If there is some slop then you might have to weld the top of the carrier ears where it presses on the bottom of the lugging lugs.  This will make the carrier rise a bit more.  However, original parts are hard to find.  DON'T do anything to them unless and until you are sure they need repair.  The carrier only stays in the up position through friction.  Could also be something as simple as spreading the carrier legs a bit so the carrier has more tension on it.

[Colt Fanning]

Hi,
Thanks to all for the tips.
Regards
Colt