Shasta, et al.,
Thanks for the tips. I suspect the larger size bullets are needed.. No I have not slugged the bore but will get it done. Good point on the grease cookies. I use to shoot a sharps .45-110. I certainly needed more lube.
I will give it a go at Xmas.
Thanks
Dan

Thanks for the greeting.
This an original win so I don't really want to cut etc.....
The muzzle calipered at .458 in the grove as best I can measure.
Bullets are commercial from buffalo arms

The bore/rifling looks to be in order. The muzzle crown worn slightly but for a rifle made in 1881 it's not to bad.
I am shooting black powder with buffalo arm brass 300gr cast bullet compressed loads should be near original load. Rounds are keyholing at 45yrds!
Regards
Mgdan in JKT