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44/40 or 38/40 ??

4.3K views 16 replies 11 participants last post by  30wcf  
I have been watching for an 1894 in either one, and not finding much to choose from. Prices seem very high, and condition of guns usually seems poor. Most that are within reach price wise need a reline job. As to shooting, The 38/40 that I do have has a long octagon barrel, 1907 vintage win 92. Bore is well worn, but still intact end to end no pits. Shoots pretty good, and is a delight to shoot with mild cast bullet loads. I have thought about having it rebored and cut to 44-40, but not sure if that is enough caliber change to clean it up. Thought also about reline, but I think It shoots to well to merit that. I do not want to hurt it's value as an investment.

Ballistics with either, should do for up to deer hunting, and compete well with any modern 1894.

When you find the rifle you will know what caliber pistol to look for, as either one should do well.