Let's try it again...Hepburn help !

[pram-z]

Well I found some more numbers, can anyone help identify what I've got ?.
It is stamped, E REMINGTON & SON ILION N.Y. also HEPBURN'S PAT OCT. 7 TH 1879,serial # 2351, also on the bottom of the barrel is stamped 44.2 4/10. The barrel is 28 1/2" long, and is full length octagonal. I was told it is a .45-70, but am unsure. Also does anyone know a good gunsmith in NW Oregon who can work on this ?. I would like to get it in working order so my nephew can use it on an upcoming buffalo hunt.

[pram-z]

Thank you Blackhills, I was starting to think everybody on this site had died. That is useful information, I doubt this rifle has been altered, and will look for a good gunsmith to help out. Thanks again for your reply.

[roundtop]

Pull off the forearm and see if the barrel has been set back. There will be an extra dovetail if it has been. If not then try a 45-70 cartridge. If it fits you are in luck because a 45-90 case should fit ok. A 45-90 is 2 4/10" long. I have used 45-90 cases before. Most 44 Remingtons are almost a 45 anyway. You can get brass and loaded ammo from Buffalo Arms I would think. If all original you have a very desirable rifle there. Slug the bore and see what diameter it is. Mine was .452. Moulds are available. 45 lead bullets can be brought down to size if you do it in steps.

[marlinman93]

What's not working on it now? With the reproduction of Hepburns by a couple makers, it's not hard to find parts for them. If you can tell me what it isn't doing, I can help you with local assistance in geting it running again.

[pram-z]

Thanks marlinman93, the block only drops down about halfway past the bore and stops. I don't feel comfortable enough about trying to tear it down and possibly devaluing the gun in the process. I also would like to find a reputable gunsmith in the Northwest Oregon area who could work on it. Thanks for trying to help. Paul.

[marlinman93]

Not exactly NW Oregon, but in Washington. I use and highly reccommend John Taylor in Puyallup, Wa. I send anything I can't do myself to John, and his work is tops, plus prices are reasonable.
Here's John's web site with contact info-Vall

http://www.johntaylormachine.com/

[pram-z]

Thank you, I checked his web site and remembered I'd seen it before and he's not all that far away. I'll contact him soon. Thanks again.