In my excitement getting it out of the box it slipped out of my hand and whacked me in the forehead! (need that little black eyed smiley) Let me tell you that that there's a lot of steel in that thing! I still have a knot on my head!
The barrel and mag tube have both been shortened and a bunch of holes drilled in the receiver for a mount.
Been thinking about a new 24" half round half oct. barrel, new stocks, get the holes filled and have the rec. case hardened.
I had originally planned on a new Shilo Sharps and sold off a bunch of stuff that was gathering dust. But, an expensive truck repair and another unexpected bill took a big chunk of $$ out of my gun fund.
So my thinking was that I can play with the 86 as is and save up a few bucks for the rehab.
So I'm heading off to PA with a bunch of lever guns and six shooters for a much needed mental health weekend! I need a few days in the woods !!!
Will post pictures Monday!
Ok,
Back from a nice quiet weekend in the woods.
After unloading the truck I pulled out the '86 and popped off a few rounds at stump. Was really pleased at how well it functioned and fired.
After getting a few other things done I got some targets to see what it could do.
Nice tight group but I was aiming at the lower right target
The sights are pathetic. The rear is a full buckhorn and I don't think it's original. The front sight is so small it's a joke. But from that group ( 50 yds off hand) I can see what she is capable of. I like how steady it is when shouldered. So the barrel will probably stay. Went on a 5+ mile hike with it Monday morn. and while it's heavier than my Marlin LTDIII it's not unpleasant to carry.
Still needs some work. The holes need to be filled. Neither set was done level with the top of the receiver. New stock and new sights for sure.
Just a nice quiet weekend to remind me that there is order in the universe
My best buddy, Abbey
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