hammer drops to half cock

[mr phil]

So about 5 out of 10 times that I pull the trigger the hammer falls to half cock . QUE PASA ?
I hope this is not a serious issue. I just bought bought her and have not shot it yet.
She's a Pedersoli Sharps 45-70.
Does anyone have a suggestion ?
Also where can I find any info on breaking her down for cleaning and repair? I can be somewhat handy.

[Thumper]

The engaging tip of the sear is worn or the ledge it rest's on is. If it's a new gun, I'd send it back to be fixed or replaced at the factory, if used, go to Dixie Gun Works for both Italian and American parts. I believe VTI has a schematic on the Sharps.

[mr phil]

Well I'm willing to give it a go. Is anyone aware of any info on breaking these down ?

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[Reverend P. Babcock Chase]

Howdy Mr. Phil,

If your Sharps has set triggers, it sounds like you may have a problem with the fly in the tumbler. That's a little flapper that flips forward and guides the sear over the half cock when the trigger is used in the set position. If it is working correctly, it should prevent you from lowering the hammer into half cock from full cock. If your gun does not have set triggers then I'd bet on Thumper's explanation. I'd try to find a gunsmith with some experience with set trigger Sharps to look at things.

Reverend Chase

[Ranch 13]

There's a small screw behind the back trigger that is flush with the trigger plate. That tensions one of the trigger springs, you may need to turn it just a bit..

[mr phil]

It does have set triggers. And I think the fellow I bought her off of had just MESSED with the tension. As a matter of fact when I first pulled the set trigger I had a hard time setting it. So maybe it does need to be adjusted correctly. I hope that will take care of it.
Any advice on the adjustment.
Thank you all for your help.
This is why I love cowboy shooting. ......... well there is the shooting , but the people who do it are the best.

[Ranch 13]

Turn the screw until the hammer won't stay cocked , then back the other way 1/4 turn at a time until it works like it should.

[mr phil]

Well now I can't wait to get home.
But, heres the tuff question.   Where can I find brass ?

I'll be sure to let you know how the adjustment goes.
Thanks again 

[mr phil]

 
Yes sir. That did the trick. Thank you so much. Now I gotta find some ammo or some brass so I can shoot her.

[Blackpowder Burn]

Starline has it available.  $116 for 250 pieces.

[mr phil]

Starline has it available.  $116 for 250 pieces.

Thanks. Just ordered some.