Dixie Gun Works 1861 Springfield - Minie Ball Size ?

[NC2815N]

Hello!

I have a Dixie Gun Works 1861 Springfield kit that I assembled back in the early 1990's. This particular kit was made in Japan (I believe the kits are made in Italy now) and I am trying to figure out what size Minie Ball to use in it - .570, .575, .580, .585 ? The kit did not come with any sort of manual or instructions and I have only ever fired it with just a charge. If it helps, the serial number is 07XX. I would like to shoot the rifle this spring, but need help in selecting the correct bullet size.

Many thanks in advance!
-John

[Maillemaker]

Really your best bet is to get a selection of bullets sized from .575 to .585 and try them and see what gives you a good fit.

Or you can see if you can borrow some plug gauges to determine the bore size.

Steve

[Ron/The Old Reb]

The one I have I bought in the late 80's. It shoots a 580.

[Jim_Burgess_2078V]

My DGW M1861 Springfield, acquired in 1990 (2-digit SN), is fed .580 diameter Rapine old style minies unsized. Rifles from the same manufacturer can have varying bore sizes so you may have to experiment with different bullets, gauges and/or sizing dies to find the right slip fit.
Jim Burgess, 15th CVI