New to this great site and to 19th century SS rifles.
Been reloading since the '70's, have extensive hunting experience, etc.
Recently ordered a C Sharps Arms 1885 and have a few questions.  Spent some time searching on the forum here but am still fuzzy.

My questions involve the firing pin.

I see in Frank de Haas's book on SS's that the original 1885 action FP had a spur under it that engaged a link to provide positive retraction of the FP as the breech block was lowered.

1) Does the CSA's 1885 lack this spur?

I ask because it seems many recommend setting the hammer to half cock when opening the action in order to prevent damage to the FP, damage that would not seem possible if mechanical retraction of the pin is provided by lowering the breech block.

2) Must the hammer be set to half cock when opening the CSA 1885 action?

I've read the posts about the Mann-Niedner modification to the firing pin.   

3) Does the CSA's 1885 incorporate any positive block to prevent FP being blown out of the back of the cation?
Or was that only a problem with the original large diameter striker points?

Thanks!!

bpjack wrote yesterday at 1:37pm:

Thank you!

1885 lover here as well- never halfcocked one to open. In fact, I have had some flat spring rifles that may never have been put there for any reason while I owned them. 
However, I was thinking that, due to the name of the company, you might not be cross thinking to an actual Sharps hammer rifle (or replica) that needs to have the hammer withdrawn for certainty as the block lowers.

What Jack says is true, they are a pretty good copy of a coil spring original.  I have a few of them, and can say that sometimes they must have a problem with the timing of the firing pin retraction.  My C. Sharps 1885 in 32-40 will often drag the firing pin on the case head.  It's otherwise a good gun.  I'm glad I bought it.

Chris.

EVR wrote yesterday at 10:20pm:


I would imagine so.  All of mine don't do it, just this one.  But it's my favorite one 

Chris.   

Jack that's a good idea.  I should compare it to one of my originals that someone has done this to.  I also have a few spare firing pins, I could probably try swapping those in to see if it improves the situation.  I think there is a fair bit of hand fitting on the parts of their 1885's

I've got to take this rifle out again soon.  I've been spending a lot of time with my Wyoming Armory 1885 whenever I've been able to get to the range.

Chris.

calledflyer wrote Today at 11:20am:


Do new C Sharps Arms parts fit originals?

Chris,
I have an old style block with the horizontal pin that retains the firing pin. Finding the matching old style firing pins is a challenge. I made a few with the “spur” but found it easier to just turn a round “spur less” firing pin with the correct nose diameter for a small spring.  It is an easy task if you have access to a lathe. 

Jack