.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.

[markH]

I've already tried Brownells. From US forums I've checked they are just not available any more other than the custom brass/custom price places. Winchester still list long Colt (could be trimmed) but they're not available at the minute, I guess they're too busy making anti Putin brass.

I think the easiest way might be adapting .22 hornet cases, I found something on you tube that looks as though it's do-able.

[markH]

The other thing I found on You Tube was a way to make .32 rimfire by drilling an off centre hole to accept a 6mm blank as a primer.

That would avoid any "modification problems" and also allow me to put my Remington no4 rolling block on ticket.

[flanker]

Looks like a 32-20 conversion would be possible:
https://youtu.be/KfFxjX4jMkU

[markH]

The problem with that way is that reaming the chamber would be modifying the rifle. So it is then permanently a section 1 firearm and loses it's antique status.

[flanker]

Well yes, but that'll be the case if you make it shoot in anyway at all won't it? And 32-20 or 32WCF is quite a classic calibre, been around since 1882.

[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.