I’m contemplating the purchase of a New Winchester 1873 and I have 2 questions (so far).
Q1 - How delicate is a “color case Hardened” finish?
I understand this finish is a chemical dye treatment, a faux knock off of real bone char carbon case harding process. I worry about the durability of this finish, that it may just rub off from routine cleaning & oiling after shooting BP.
Q2 - Will my bullet a SAECO #955 45 cal. 255 gr. RNFP with a single lube groove, carry enough Emmert’s Improved lube to exit a 24 inch barrel and leave a lube star?
My understanding is that no lube star equals indicates lube starvation has occurred and this is confirmed by a cleaning rod that drags or jams up 4” from the muzzle.