Not sure if this is the correct section but I want to learn more about the Trap Door 45-70.

I have a Marlin and Ruger 1 in 45-70 but the collection is missing the main one. I see where a good condition one is going for around $1,250. I do not know enough to know if that 1250 is a bag of bolts and parts or a good shooter. I do not see that many on the range but when I do I try to pick the owner's mind.

For the people that own a trap door what are your suggestions be if you were looking? How can you test the springs, the lock down of the doors. What usually causes the most problems?

Switching from black powder to smokeless power, what to look for?

Thanks

I got a good one about five years ago on GB for $800. If buying sight unseen, try to judge how it's been taken care of from the pictures - lots of detailed pictures is good. How is its overall condition? Then try to get a feel for the owner. If he's just a seller who "doesn't know anything about these things", I steer clear, but if he seems to be knowledgeable intelligent and responsive, I might take a chance. There are still plenty out there, don't jump on the first one that looks good; there always another one. Get as good as you can afford, but it's not necessary to overpay. There are usually some at gun shows, where you can inspect them. Important: use only ammo that is identified as "safe for Trapdoors", you can get it from suppliers for cowboy action shooting.

Trapdoorcollector.com

The website is clunky but the people there are extremely knowledgeable. i asked some questions and emailed the pics to the expert on there before buying one.

I have one that is in very good condition and a very good shooter as well. If ever in the vicinity you are welcome to shoot the rifle. The later versions, like mine, have the best sights, one similar to a 03 Springfield. I only shoot smokeless in the rifle and it is as safe as the loads. Since the rifle barrel has to be cleaned from the muzzle be sure to check that area for wear, it will not shoot accurately if visibly worn and of course no pits in the barrel if you are looking for a good shooter. A side note, there were a bunch of new trapdoors in storage as late as WWII that were released for cadet training. Most of these were never fired but do suffer from dings and abrasions, good luck on your search.

Hey Dale PM sent.

Tom

There was a guy standing outside the Winston gun show yesterday, carrying one and had the bayonet in a scabbard on his belt. As I understood, he was looking for $800 or so. Seemed like a low price to me.