I've never owned any top breaks because they don't fit my "Navy-sized" hands. But my opinion is a combination of Coffinmaker and Major 2.  I think that's a big stretch calling it a birdshead.  And yeah, I'd want one (as long as I didn't have to pay for it) so I could sell it for a lot of dough.   

Greetings My Good Netizens

I have recently acquired a bucketlist pistol, namely a rather nice British Smith &Wesson 2nd Model Hand Ejector, originally in .455 , but modified (nicely ) to .45 AutoRim, and so marked on the barrel.

Yes, the cylinder has been “shaved” but it was well done, and the finish is reLly quite good for a revolver from 190x

I do not intend to shoot .45 ACP in it, even tho that was clearly the intent for WW1 ,
especially since the S&W experts have established that S&W did not heat treat their cylinders until the model 1917 .

Has anyone had any good results reloading for these grand old Revólveres?

the consensus of the web is that these .455 S&W revolvers do not perform well with .451 bullets.

Thus I am considering loading to ~12k psi using lead bullets designed for the ROA at .456 - either  the Lee 90384 or the Kaido flat nose , using .45 AR cases (since they are available and the cylinder is already reamed for them).

Comments, thoughts, whatever?

With my workshop completely contained in boxes atl the moment Making and measuring the chambers and bore are a bit of a challenge….


Yhs
Prof mUmbles

I’ll get more pictures later when I figure this sizing thing out.

The build code on the revolver is CI so that would make it a 2012 model.

Thanks all for the information. I will definately try the washer thing. This will be my second open top. I have the same revolver only in .38 special with the original brass grip frame and 5 1/2" barrel. I haven't had the opportunity to shoot it much either, but will as spring is in the air. 

Hello, I’m Mike and new here. Just getting started with vintage carbines and plan on getting these to into shooting condition. I have a M1865 Burnside Spencer carbine coming in a few days that will need the center fire top block conversion. I’ll keep you posted. I also have a M1853 Sharps that I’m working on, just ordered calipers to make sure everything fits right. Already have what’s needed to make paper cartridges. Having trouble getting the nipple loose from the block and don’t know what size nipple wrench to get. That’s all that left for a thorough cleaning. Don’t worry, not altering any original finish or patina, keeping it all original.