Am new to the site so beg pardon if this is the wrong heading in which to post this inquiry.
In 1956, when aged 13, I splurged my entire year's savings ($39.00) while on vacation in Carlisle, Pennsylvania purchasing a somewhat battered Pennsylvania long rifle. It is what I'd call a 'stump' rifle with a middling heavy barrel presently 41.5" long and calibre .45, + or -. Walnut stock, straight butt, brass mounted with four-piece patchbox. I'd guestimate 1840s to 1860s style. Original rammer with original hand made worm still in the patchbox(!) I tried to get the piece to function when back home, failed (it wouldn't detonate a cap and the triggers were not functioning properly), and hung it up...until a few weeks ago. Some expert work and bore scrubbing (the bore is surprisingly smooth and the rifling sharp) and it is now functional. Am working up loads using a .433 ball and a ticking patch.
Question: On top of the barrel is stamped "CV HEILxxx(a rear sight notch interupts) / CARLISLE". I've not been able to identify this maker. Any help and or insight would be appreciated. Dave Fox, Hendersonville, N.C.
