After a lifetime of want, and a few model 94's around the house, I finally procured a real 73' 44WCF made in 1884 in what i think to be excellent condition. Commercial ammo is not readily available since no one will ship black powder cartridges to Alaska. So I went and got some Winchester brass (given the choice between that and Remington) to test the functionality of the gun. And the case fits so tight into the chamber that once I got it fully seated I wound up having to rod it out. So I fit one manually and it stops about 1/4" from being seated, so I rammed it home with the strength of a bear to close the action, and when I attempted to eject the case the extractor destroyed the rim of the case. I'm really hoping this to be a growing pain and not a $1,500.00 fireplace rifle. One local store has Ultramax cowboy load 44-40 on the shelf, and this would be my only option to shoot her until I can get dies, but I'd hate to do anything neglectful to this piece of history. She is a sporter with a special order 22" barrel. Ughh I am frustrated anyone got any ideas on why the chamber seems too small?