Quote:
Originally Posted by Drdogface
I sent the pics to an antique gun dealer/collector this AM. He told me that he considers the design unsafe in that a hot load could put that breech block into your mouth. You might really wanna have it checked out by a competent gun smith to be sure the catch/latch on that is in good shape and strong. He added that he would not shoot smokeless loads thru it....black powder only is what he advised...short case only. There are some smokeless powders which try to duplicate pressure curves of Black. You may seek those out if you want to reload.
Personally, I have no idea but just thought I'd pass this along...
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No offense intended, but your gun dealer/collector is full of BS.
It is virtually impossible for a Darne to allow the breech block loose into the shooters face. The design locks the breech with a solid high grade steel piece approx. 1" x 1/2" . Which is far larger (in mass, sectional density and bearing area) than any high-powered bolt action rifles. Is your collector worried about M70s, M700, M77s, 98s, 1903s, etc. and recommending blackpowder for them too?
It is proofed for nitro powder, as long as the barrels are in good shape, there is no need for blackpowder loads. Cartridge length is a concern, but not smokeless powder. It is not difficult to obtain (or make) the correct cartridge length.