rnnhntr wrote on Feb 21
st, 2025 at 5:56pm:
Thank you for the input and keep it coming. I limited my initial information because I did not want to prejudice the conversation any more than necessary. I started out with a Cresnoe liner in my 1874 Sharps and am currently shooting BPCR matches with a Stevens 44 with a 24-inch barrel that I relined with a 1:16 twist TJ liner. Those rifles let me know that I like the game and have gotten me to where I can fairly regularly shoot high AA class scores. I usually shoot 2 to 4 on chickens and 9 or 10 on pigs, but fall off on turkeys and rams. I know that a new rifle does not make up for a lack of marksmanship, but it doesn't hurt. I mostly shoot scope, but also use the rifle in our local cowboy silhouette matches where I usually shoot in the high 20s. I do not find the shorter barrel to be a significant handicap with the irons. Most of the shooters at the matches I have attended here in Colorado or in Wyoming shoot CPA rifles, but the 1885 and clones are also popular, and both seem to be equally capable of winning matches depending on the shooter. I would like to have a low wall and a CPA 44-1/2, but can only afford one or the other. I have had good results using Lilja and Shilen barrels in centerfire rifles and will probably use one of the other on whatever, and probably with a 14-twist if I can do so. Since I am capable of doing so, I had originally considered buying an acton and building whatever myself, but I already have too many projects.
Both CPA & CSA can build you a wonderful rifle and both sell triggers that can be made to be truly excellent. The advantage for the CPA is that it is a DST, if something you prefer. The advantage to the CSA low-wall is that it is self-cocking when cycled.
One thing you have not mentioned is ammo. If your scores are dropping off beyond the pigs it may well be the ammo your are using. See what ammo the winners are shooting. It will generally be the high-priced spread (Tenex, Midas+, etc.). You get what you pay for.........
One last thought. Go with a stainless barrel. It is much easier to maintain and retains it accuracy much long than carbon-steel.