Pennsylvania Rifle Works - broken lock help

[Bob_Johnson65]

Good evening all!

A co-worker has 2 percussion long rifles, both with non-functional locks.  The hammer moves freely and has no spring tension on both rifles, so I assume the mainsprings are broken.

One rifle is clearly marked "Pennsylvania Rifle Works."  Both rifles are small bore, I believe 31 caliber but will need to verify.

Besides the non-functional locks, both rifles have stock damage in the wrist area and will need a deep cleaning of the bore and ignition system.

Anyway, are there any recommendations for a competent gunsmith in the NE Florida or SE Georgia areas?  The owner would like to get these firearms into working condition.

Alternately, I could swap out the mainsprings myself.  Recommendations for reputable parts suppliers would be welcome.

Cheers to all and a Happy New Year!
 

[rich pierce]

I do not have recommendations for a restorer, but wonder if you’ll be adding to the historical and collectible value of the guns by doing some of the work you have planned.

[Bob_Johnson65]

The general thought process is that a functional firearm is more useful/collectable than a non-functioning firearm.

[Longknife]

If you can get an old Track of the Wolf catalog there are actual size pictures of replacement locks. Remove the main springs and match them up to the pictures....LK

[smylee grouch]

OR you could give Cabin Creek a call and discuss the project with them.

[JTR]

Take the locks off and show us a good picture of the outside and inside. Show them with a ruler to give some scale.
Might be an easy fix.
John

[smokinbuck]

Interesting. I have a Penn Rifle Works squirrel rifle. The rifle has a 46.5" barrel and overall is in excellent condition, including the bore. My rifle is in .32 caliber. The Penn rifle works were only in business for a very short number of years. My rifle is available, PM for more info.

[EGG17601]

The Penn rifle works were only in business for a very short number of years.

Apparently, 1837-1858.

[Bob_Johnson65]

I appreciate all the replies!

I am going to ask the owner to allow the lock plate to be removed for additional pictures.

In the mean time, I am going to email Cabin Creek and get a quote for some new springs (assuming that is the problem).

More to follow.

[Shreckmeister]

Interested in the rifle next to the top if it’s available.

[Howard]

Most springs will not work as they are all different. Good Luck!