Another build on the way.

[Big Jack]

Let me start by saying I never intended to do this one. A short while back I found a guy selling an original configuration Savage 10ML not ML-II. Never owned one of Ball’s original design so I jumped on it even though it had a seized breach plug which is usually easy to fix.

The gun shows up and yup the plug is stuck but it is apparent the fellow was trying to pull it with the wrong tool.

I was was just about to gently heat the breach plug and barrel with propane torch when I decided I better check to make sure Barrel had nothing in it. Drop the ramrod down and I could tell right away the fellow left the charge in. Shined a light down and sure enough there is a 45 cal HP bullet crown looking back at me.

After I calmed down a bit and let the seller know of this “mistake”, I had to figure out how to get the charge out. Bullet and sabot had extreme corrosion all around them and the guy had used triple 7 powder. Couldn’t discharge it because it could very well explode if bullet was cemented in bore.

I won’t post how I got the charge out but suffice it to say the barrel was completely ruined by the charge being left in for so long.

New barrel is on order and should be here Monday. Can’t get original replacement so it will be another Brux 45 cal.

The guy that sold it came through and refunded a big portion of the original cost. Apparently he inherited the gun and took it to be inspected by a gun smith before selling it to me.

This is the second time I’ve received an ML with a charge in the bore so guys beware!

I will post pics once it is put together. Plan is to use smooth form bullets or sabots in this one.