WTB M1865, 1866 and 1868

[FrankTrost]

WTB early trapdoors - Model 1865, Model 1866 and Model 1868. Also, I am looking for a later Model 1870 ramrod. I am in NW Illinois.

[Dick Hosmer]

1866s are around, you just have to find one you like. For just starting out, I'd definitely stick with a three-bander. The short ones can be funky and a snake-pit for the unwary. The 1000+ REAL "short rifles" are rare. 1865s do NOT show up often, and will never be cheap. The world is full of 1868s; just hold out for a nice one. GunBroker and Guns International are the best. big sources. Collectors in Houston has good stuff but is high-priced. Stay away from the auction houses - you will be payomg through the nose. For rods, I'd recommend S&S, Granpa's, Lodgewood, even Ebay.

[FrankTrost]

Thanks for the advice and leads. I am staying away from short rifles, cadet rifles, and carbines. I am just interested in infantry rifles. I may have a lead on an 1865 for nearly 4k, but I am wary of paying that.

Thanks
Frank