Troy,
Yep, while folks tend to think of me as a warthog, I'm more accurately interested in authenticity. I shoot original cartridges as they were loaded "back then". As you say, the 32WCF is authentic and is my version of a "gamer" load. If I can get this Lightning up to snuff, then I have the best of both worlds - authenticity and mild ammo.
As far as a 20 gauge - NOPE!
There's just some things you don't compromise on.............
Dusty,
Many thanks for the kind words. I wish I could restore as many original firearms as you've done, but we all do what we can. Between us all, hopefully we'll preserve a good sampling of all of these grand old guns for our posterity. I know I told my son a couple of days ago that I'd haunt him forever if he ever let these old guns get out of the family. He seems to be properly inspired to keep them......we'll see!
I know when I was young I turned up my nose at lever guns and the old stuff. Now, I have no interest in bolt rifles and the modern "black" guns. Lever and pump guns with non-telescopic sights at long range with black powder "trip my trigger". Much more challenging and fun to work with - and much more potential than folks appreciate.
Long may they live.
P.S. - I'd love to get the opportunity to meet you and send a few rounds downrange together some day. We live too near each other to only "talk" on the internet.