A comparison of two early trapdoors

[Fred]

Yeah, you’re right Dick.
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[Kragrifle]

Didn?t see the inspector marks behind trigger plates?

[Fred]

Here ya go.
This is on number 6.

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[Fred]

This is where the receiver of number 6 was inletted to allow it?s rear sight to be mounted in that location.

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[Fred]

As you can see, the firing pin on rifle number 6 is retained by a screw that comes in from the side instead of from underneath.
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[Dick Hosmer]

By almost destroying the picture, I was able to see into the cavern. When the time comes, it will have to be lit differently. Lotta interesting features to be documented! MAYBE this winter. Problem is I have so DAMN many copies of the original book.

[Fred]

I believe that when this rifle was assembled, Springfield Armory was only putting them together one at a time until the basic features of the Model 1868 were finalized for production.
That was possibly till serial number 10.
Then a block of them (150 ?) were completed for testing and trials.
I’d sure like to take a look at rifle number 7, 1 and 8 (in the SA museum), 9 and 10 to see what was was being considered for production
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[Fred]

The 1866 rear sight...
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Blued furniture...
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[Fred]

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[butlersrangers]

Dick - Maybe you could publish a 'companion' booklet, that would supplement your first book.

It could include new information, pictures, correct or clarify, and enhance the earlier work.

I'd certainly buy one!