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Can anyone tell me about this? It was found in a box of stuff in a deceased relatives house. It appears to be made from brass, the stains are mostly discoloration from being stored next to some rusty iron. The handle is marked “US” and “.58”. It looks like army issue from years ago.
Sorry about the pictures, it's the best my camera would do.
Attachment 188937 Attachment 188938 Attachment 188939
Looks like Civil War Era...also looks like it is missing a pin to 'hollow the base'. No sprue cutter so it must be an early model. I looked all over couldn't find a picture of it.
I'll bet those handles get warm!
try the Dixie catalogue.
58 cal minie' ball. I have a Winchester from pre 1886 that has similar handles. It looks in very nice condition and I dare say it is rare. Could not find a pic of one on Google.
Quote:
Originally Posted by OS OK
Makes me wonder if back when those were in use, if corn cobs would have made them comfortable to use.
The boolit shape looks like it could be for a rifle-musket, or one of those capping breechloaders. The rusty projections in front are the steel cutters to snip the sprue off the base of the boolit.
More than likely Dixie Gun Works mould for 58 cal. muzzle loading rifle, hollow base gives it away.
I have several of Dixie's , shall we say inexpensive , moulds . No sprue cutter , iron handles , they were made as simply as possible.
Gary
This may be of interest. It is the use of the 58 cal Minie' Ball. It would be interesting to find out if your mold is a "period piece". By the look of the handles I would think it is.
https://youtu.be/fkkLO0UMXBU
That's a good idea...just be careful when someone passes you a corn cob...brown ones came from the outhouse!Quote:
Originally Posted by Dusty Bannister