h&r buffalo classic

[m1978]

are these any good? are they based on an actual historical firearm? always wanted a black powder pedersoli sharps, but maybe one of these would be a good first try at fun.

 

[Preacher]

If it is inexpensive fun you are looking for, this can be had for about $420 including a cheap hard case. Accurate like you wouldn't believe, and with the 32" bbl, the sight radius os right nice. The steel butt plate does nothing to soften the recoil, though. Apparently, this design goes back to the late 1800's. Try this link for some interesting info. http://www.handirifle.com/articles/buffaloindex.htm

 

[m1978]

hmm, might be worth getting until i can afford something more. perhaps punch it out to 45-90.

 

[Preacher]

Buy it and shoot it as is. It's a $400 rifle, and it ain't worth messing with. If you want a custom -- start with something more substantial. Ain't no flies on the 45-70 anyway. People that want to rebuild the old girl are looking at numbers in a manual, and not looking at real world performance. You're looking for cheap -- buy cheap, and keep it cheap until you can buy something more expensive. I'll bet you you may never get the expensive one, specially not after you see how the classic shoots.

 

[ratherbefishin]

How does the 45-70 compare with the 38-55 model?

 

[eos]

The plastic trigger guard and thin steel butt plate detract from an otherwise not bad looking rifle. The reciver "case hardening" appearance is a nice touch and gives the rifle a appropriate "vintage" look. Imho, a good value for the $. I'd probably get one myself if they replaced the plastic bits.

 

[catnthehatt]

I've shot a few, and like them.
They are accurate, cheap, and a lot of fun.
A freind bought one to check them out, and they will really shoot well with cast handloads and black.
cat

 

[Preacher]

How does the 45-70 compare with the 38-55 model?

From everything I have read, the 38-55, which is called the Target Model, is not nearly as accurate as the Buffalo Classic in 45-70. All I can tell you is that mine is a real shooter. I went out the other night to a gravel pit about a mile from home, and chased pop cans around for a while. I've always been a plinker at heart, and this one satisfies my plinker button.

 

[m1978]

i guess it'll be the best buy rifle until norinco starts making hi-walls

 

[catnthehatt]

i guess it'll be the best buy rifle until norinco starts making hi-walls

I shudder at the thought!
Cat

 

[tiriaq]

Sounds as if there is a business opportunity for someone to offer a casehardened steel trigger guard.

 

[Preacher]

Sounds as if there is a business opportunity for someone to offer a casehardened steel trigger guard.

Leap in, and when they're done, let me know. I'll buy one.