NY state rolling block

[Adam732]

I have 2 ny state rolling blocks in 50-70. The one in question has 2 barrel bands and a 26 1/2 barrel. Can anyone educate me on this? Thanks

[Dick Hosmer]

Almost certainly some sort of aftermarket, unofficial, shortening of a standard 3-band rifle, by either the likes of Bannerman or a private owner to make it handier for hunting. There was a carbine, of course, but never - to my knowledge - any sort of "cadet" or intermediate length. However, my main knowledge of rollers concerns those made at Springfield, so? Such abortions (middle band left as is, barrel cut to some oddball dimension) are quite common with the Model 1866 (2nd Allin conversion) in the trapdoor line.

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,

The short barrel rifle is often called a musketoon but I
don't know of any that were ordered by New York. Also,
there looks to be a little braze exposed on the base of
the front sight. A Remington mounted front sight would
have been brazed on more neatly and not have any exposed
excess bronze. So, I agree with Hosmer; I think this is
either a Bannerman special or a gunsmith modified one.
Probably to remove a damaged end of the barrel.

Cheers!
Webb