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Rolling Block Question

bdubb

...
Full Member
Minuteman
Oct 28, 2009
418
30
TX
Figured the vintage section was the best place for this although I wouldn't consider it a sniper rifle, I have an old Rolling Block rifle that I'd like to see if anyone here can help identify what version it is. I prefer not to join another forum just to check into this rifle and it will be several weeks before I can go see a dealer who may be able to help.

Looking online, the photos I found appear to be the closest to the Model 1 version however I have not found an exact match that appears to be halfway documented on what version it is. Digging through some old boxes I also came across some .43 Spanish cartridges for the rifle, so without checking the chamber at a gunsmith my best guess is that it is a .43 Spanish. Issue I have with the gun is that I have found no markings on the rifle whatsoever for identification other than what may be a "O" on the front of the trigger guard. Sides of the barrel close to the receiver just show vise/tooling marks.

Here is a link to an album with some detailed photos for anyone who may be able to help.

http://s54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/bwolv/Rolling%20Block/



Thank you
 
Re: Rolling Block Question

Is it Remington made? There are some good sites for that.

Send some additional pictures and all the markings... and I'd be glad to try an help.

They are GREAT old rifles. About as simple as they get... and in simplicity, elegance.

Cheers,

Sirhr
 
Re: Rolling Block Question

If it's a 43 Spanish chances are it is an Argentine 1879 rolling block.
 
Re: Rolling Block Question

The Argentine rolling blocks more often than not have an octagon section of barrel at the receiver and are marked as such Modelo 1879. Could be that it is another South American contract piece. Best thing to do is have your 'smith make a chamber cast. Much too clean to be an Egyptian RB in 43 Egyptian.
The RB was used by many more countries than people realize. Although never used as much in the U.S., it was used all over South America, Japan had a contract for them as did the Vatican
 
Re: Rolling Block Question

My 1879 Argentine RB has a round barrel. I have never seen one with an octagon barrel.