Sidelock advice.

[Slumber]

I have been looking into getting a used sidelock black powder rifle. I will be using it for hunting and target shooting. (I think my nephews would get a kick out it)
I want to keep cost under $150 if possible. I have found a few in this price range but being new to sidelocks I was wondering what I should watch out for when looking.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Robin]

I don't have any real experience with production guns, but I have been to many shoots where a number of guys were using a variety of off the shelf guns. I assume you are thinking, cap lock, but even with flint, the Thompson Center Hawkins is by far the best of these guns, rock solid, dependable and well made, second would be CVA, made in Europe, excellent barrels, locks are so so, but the overall package is pretty darn good. From there the fall is pretty steep and if it were me I would stick with these two brands even if I had to cough up a bit more. Two things, check the bore, a lot of people that owned these guns didn't clean them so have a bore light. MORE IMPORTANT!!!!!!!!!! Before you check the bore, make sure it does not hold a charge!!!!!!!!!! It happens more than you might think and I have seen many, from very, very old, to modern ones like you are looking for that were loaded, and as long as the powder is dry it will ignite, no matter how long its been in there, 300 years or 300 days. I think $150.00 is a bit optimistic, I couldn't even supply you with a lock for that much, but they are out there. Glad to help if I can, the very best of luck in your search!!!!!
Robby

 

[Slumber]

Thanks for the input! I wasn't even sure which name brand to look for. I could do more than $150 I would just have to wait another month or so. I just know this isn't something I a going to shoot as often as my centerfire rifles.
I have a bore light and no matter what firearm I am looking at the first thing I do is make sure it is empty. I'm not new to buying used firearms and so I will check them over as I usually do but wasn't sure if there were extra things to look for.
And yes I am looking for a caplock.

One of the things that I love about this forum is there are guys with experience in just about anything and always willing to help.

 

[Robin]

I'm sure you do check that they're loaded, its just that with muzzleloaders people tend to assume they are not loaded. I know some professional restorers that have been caught short a time or two, one even having a 250 year old flintlock pistol go off in his shop. Very unnerving, especially for people around these things on a daily basis. Never hurts to be reminded.
Robin

 

[Slumber]

Certainly does and I appreciate it. I am never bothered by a friendly reminder when it comes to safety.

 

[Robin]

Rifles for sale

Might be of interest to you,
Robin