1873 Trapdoor problem......Help!

[rbertalotto]

I picked up a used H&R 1873 Officers Model rifle. Took it to the range to shoot and I'm having an issue.

When I insert a case and attempt to close the trap door. The cartridge rim slips behind the extractor and jams up the works.

The extractor seems extremely hard to push forward with a screwdriver. I'm not sure how much tension should be on the spring that moves this extractor.

The extractor does not look worn and it fits into the slot on the side of the chamber with no issues.

any ideas?

[Drydock]

Trapdoors use a very strong spring on the extractor, so it should be hard to push.  THis simply should not happen, I wish I could see the extractor,  perhaps the countersink area for the rim has broken off.  Are you trying to fully thumb seat the cartridge in the chamber, or are you simply dropping it in and closing the breech? (the latter being correct)

[rbertalotto]

Well, I fixed it. Took it completely apart and the spring that pushes on the extractor was a hunk or rusted mess! I cleaned it all out and replaced the spring and it works perfect now!

Yes, I'm simply dropping the cartridge into the chamber until it hits the extractor and then closing the trap.

Should do some shoot'n tomorrow!

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[StrawHat]

Glad to hear you got it working. 

Those H&R use that small bore cartridge, flatter shooting too, makes it easier if you can't estimate the range.  It might hang on.