1884 ramrod bayonet swivel Catch

[colmain]

Hi I am hoping someone can let me know how to put the 1884 ramrod bayonet Catch piece back on the rifle. I have the part, springs and pin but am not sure how to compress the springs to slip this piece back on. I purchased this rifle and from the previous owner that had disassembled everything. I have been able to put it all back together except this. Thanks for any help that you could give me.

[carlsr]

Hi I am hoping someone can let me know how to put the 1884 ramrod bayonet Catch piece back on the rifle. I have the part, springs and pin but am not sure how to compress the springs to slip this piece back on. I purchased this rifle and from the previous owner that had disassembled everything. I have been able to put it all back together except this. Thanks for any help that you could give me.

Colman, well that is rather tricky. If I remember correctly you need to put one into the spring hole, slide the lever partially on then insert the other. It is rather nerve racking. Hope this helps, oh and the pin goes in from the right.

[Dick Hosmer]

Colmain, Is your rifle really an 1884, or the later M1888 model? If the former, I'd be interested in the serial number. 1884s have the front sight mounted in the removable sight cover. M1888s have it on the barrel nearer to the muzzle than other trapdoors. I've not taken a latch apart in many years but I recall wishing for third hand!

[colmain]

Hi This is the serial number and also the cartouche date 542339 SWP 1892. I have also included a picture of the ramrod catch.

Thanks

Chris