Ballard Rifle

[civilwarlife]

I am considering a Ballard. It has the duel ignition with the nipple in the breech block. Is there a way to convert this to center fire without destroying the original breech block?
Thanks

[efritz]

Yes. There is an approved spring loaded firing pin that screws right into the spot the nipple is in.
Gator den or Nick Brevoort has them.

[Jack C., 69th NY]

It depends on which Ballard rifle you are referring to. Most, if not all, dual ignition Ball & Williams blocks have a "dog-leg" fire channel that will not accept the screw in firing pin unit. The straight through, in line dual ignition blocks did not start until midway through the Merrimack production period. I believe all dual ignition Brown Ballards have an inline fire channel. Unscrew the nipple and screw in the firing pin unit. Be sure that the unit is securely held by the block.
That said....... Ballards have been modified for the past 150 years so there is no 100% certainty until each rifle is examined. I have seen a few "aftermarket" conversions to dual ignition and to centerfire.

[John Holland]

Nick Brevoort, owner and operator of the Gator Den, closed his shop and business 2 years ago.

[efritz]

I believe it was last year I ordered one of those adapters from Nick. Yes he said he's out of the Gator Den but he said anyone looking for Ballard parts could still contact him. If he has it he'll sell it.

[civilwarlife]

Thanks to all. I'll check out the gun and see if it is straight or not.

[civilwarlife]

Nick Brevoort, owner and operator of the Gator Den, closed his shop and business 2 years ago.

Anyone know how I can contact Nick?
Thanks

[efritz]

513-232-7045