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Can a brass Henry follower be repaired?


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Just a question, a friend has an original 1860 Henry (circa 1862-63) that has the brass follower tab broken off. The rifle was purchased many years ago in this condition but he wondered if this can be repaired or replaced without devaluing the rifle.

 

Rev

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The value damage has already been done with the broken Thumb Tab. There may be several suppliers who have some original parts. One who comes to mind is Buckinghams Antique Winchesters. Don't know if he has an original Henry Follower, but worth a try. He may also have a acceptable reproduction.

Could also try VTI Gunparts for an Italian reproduction.

 

Coffinmaker

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The follower is brass, right? Any good gunsmith ought to be able to braze another piece of brass on and profile the part back down to original.

 

In general, operating parts can be replaced with correct parts on collector type guns without a major hit in value. Frames, barrel and stocks, not so much.

 

Good luck, GJ

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The value damage has already been done with the broken Thumb Tab. There may be several suppliers who have some original parts. One who comes to mind is Buckinghams Antique Winchesters. Don't know if he has an original Henry Follower, but worth a try. He may also have a acceptable reproduction.

Could also try VTI Gunparts for an Italian reproduction.

 

Coffinmaker

Correct, it is the broken thumb tab. He has the parts, I would think it could be brazed but thought maybe an original part could be found. I will try the parts dealers mentioned. Thanks!

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If the owner still has both parts of the follower, it can be brazed. Since the follower is an action part, replacing it with a suitable (it fits) reproduction will not affect the overall value. Considering there is no ammunition available and the rifle is not going to be used, no one

would care the follower has been replaced. Took all the hit he is going to take when the original part broke.

 

Coffinmaker

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Run-n-Iron or Turnbull both are quite expert at repairing such antiques, should it come to that.

 

Good luck, GJ

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