Winder Musket model 1885

A buddy has an original Winder Musket model 1885 low wall single shot made around 1918 by Winchester. It has a heavy round barrel and a falling block design for loading the cartridge. The rear sight is an adjustable peep. Really cool looking gun; some were used for training the troops. The barrel and gun seems to be in very good condition. On side of gun It says .22 short ammo. A .22 long rifle cartridge seems to fit fine also. Any reason why he shouldn't shoot a .22 long rifle cartridge or even a .22 long in it ? They are more readily available and actually cheaper.

I am going to tell him to go ahead and try it! If ya don't here back from me, you know it wasn't a good idea.

Hi Tark, Thanks for your information and reply. Good to know shooting different .22 cartridges in it is ok, but accuracy, etc.will vary widely. Definitely a good idea to try different cartridges, loads, etc. to see which this old gun likes best.