.32 short colt.

[markH]

I have a Marlin 1892 which is .32 rimfire (Sec 58). I'm waiting for my ticket to come through and when it does I'd like to add the Marlin so I can shoot it.

Rimfire ammo is a non starter but I can get a firing pin made to shoot .32 short colt. Unfortunately that seems as bad to get hold of. Winchester offer brass but the only place I can find that "stocks" it keep saying that delivery is delayed. I suspect Winchester are concentrating their efforts on military calibers at the moment.

There is brass available in the States but costs about £200.00 for 100, then there's shipping and VAT on top.

I'm wondering if theres anything I can convert, .320 rook perhaps, or 310 cadet?

Alternatively is there anywhere in the UK that specialises in obsolete brass?

Finally, someone suggested I get an engineer to turn them, is that a possibility and if so any recommendations?

[sniper3]

On youtube there is a video on it, also there is contact info. Try it.

[Black Beard]

If you modify your gun to shoot 32 short colt, it is then a Section 1 and will have no antique value.

32 Short Colt is not on the list of antique calibres.

BB

[acmsarh]

If this is the one £28-20 per 100. https://www.cdsgltd.co.uk/winchester...-winu32sc.html Waiting for stock.

[sarge4318]

If you modify your gun to shoot 32 short colt, it is then a Section 1 and will have no antique value.

If he wants to shoot it it becomes S1 regardless of cartridge size. The biggest problem will be changing the classification back when he wants it back as a wall hanger. If it's not converted then it shouldn't be an issue changing it back but once it's been worked on...
Change in value is a different kettle of fish.

[markH]

I guess it depends on the definition of "Modified". On researching the rifle I found it was originally supplied with a second firing pin for centrefire. Of course the c/f one is long gone. I would have to get one made, but from there it's simply a drop in part, no tools of any kind required. Even the sideplate has a knurled finger bolt so it's simply a case of taking the breech block out, and drop in the replacement firing pin.

From what I've read there is no problem to put an antique on licence to shoot it, then take it off again to restore it's antique status.

[thisisdonald]

I would get it proofed before gathering up the reloading gear for it. It might be going back to hanging on the wall!

[sarge4318]

From what I've read there is no problem to put an antique on licence to shoot it, then take it off again to restore it's antique status.

Getting an antique put on and taken off is easy, I've done it with an old 1853 Enfield. If the modifications are able to be removed and the rifle returned to original obsolete calibre status then I guess it would be OK too.

Getting rid of the parts that make it a non-obsolete calibre might be prudent otherwise there may be some questions over intent and 'readily convertible' if anyone asks.

[Black Beard]

Try Brownells (UK website). They can get them from the US where they are in stock.

[flanker]

If you modify your gun to shoot 32 short colt, it is then a Section 1 and will have no antique value.

32 Short Colt is not on the list of antique calibres.

BB

I agree it will be Sect 1, but I also notice that Rook Rifles converted to modern pistol calibres do retain their value. Not cheap at all.

[rovercoupe]

To be honest if it’s re chambered to another calibre it will ruin it so you might as well just spend half the money and get a modern lever action to shoot and enjoy the antique for what it is or sell it on.

[flanker]

To be honest if it’s re chambered to another calibre it will ruin it so you might as well just spend half the money and get a modern lever action to shoot and enjoy the antique for what it is or sell it on.

A tasteful and sympathetic rechambering wouldn't ruin it.

[markH]

It's not going to be rechambered or modified in any way. The 1892 was originally supplied with 2 firing pins. one for .32 rimfire and 1 for .32 colt. Both cartridges have the same overall dimensions apart from the primer. So it was only necessary to change the firing pin to shoot either caliber.

My original idea was to have a second firing pin made, but since .32 short colt cases are virtually impossible to get I need a case that I can modify to the original dimensions rather than change the rifle.

If I can find a case that I can re-form to fit I can counter-bore them for a 6mm blackpowder blank and produce rimfire ammo that way. It will save the expense of having a firing pin made. It will also allow me to shoot a Remington no4 rolling block I also own.

Since neither rifle will be modified I can move them on and off ticket as required.

The next case to try is .22 hornet, apparently these can be cut down and expanded to fit.