Lightning rifle

[marshal hoyt]

I have a 32-20 made in 1885.  Beautiful gun but have two questions I'd appreciate help on.  When pushing cartridges in and forward I need to switch to my little finger to be able to get it in enough to be caught by the little latch at the end of the magazine tube.  The USFA site, for their clone, says use the following cartridge to finish pushing in the preceding one.  It that all there is to it or should each one go in completely?

Second issue is the feeding once loaded.  As soon as the slide starts forward, the carrier drops so the cartridge no longer lines up with the breech.  Had it apart and can't find a cause.  Has anyone had this problem or know what's the cause?

Thanks
Marshal Hoyt

[Wild Ben Raymond]

Quote: Second issue is the feeding once loaded.  As soon as the slide starts forward, the carrier drops so the cartridge no longer lines up with the breech.  Had it apart and can't find a cause.  Has anyone had this problem or know what's the cause? I'll start with the second question, The carrier itself is a spring, and it exerts outward pressure against the bottom part of the frame if it is not doing this, there is no pressure or drag to hold up the cartridge untill the bullet gets started into the chamber. You can either replace the carrier or try to spread it a little, kind of like pulling a wishbone apart but don't overdo it or you'll break it!
  Quote: When pushing cartridges in and forward I need to switch to my little finger to be able to get it in enough to be caught by the little latch at the end of the magazine tube.  The USFA site, for their clone, says use the following cartridge to finish pushing in the preceding one.  It that all there is to it or should each one go in completely?
Yes, you can load it using the USFA method or use your pinky to push each cartridge all the way in but the loading gate can also hold the cartridges untill the last one, then you would have to push it all the way in. Good Luck, WBR

[Ole Man Dan]

Different rifle, same loading technique...  I learned to load my 'Yellowboy' the same way.  I use the second bullet to push the first all the way in.  I only have to work to get the last round loaded.  My guns would have my arthritus giving me fits if I did it any other way.

[Steel Horse Bailey]

Howdy!

I'll jump on the Bandwagon here with a Hearty "Yep" in agreement!