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mykeal · February 1, 2010, 10:18 AM

Musket cap nipples have larger thread diameters than regular pistol or rifle nipples; they come in 5/16X18, 5/16X1 and 8mmX1. The thread size for the regular CVA Colonial pistol is 6mmX1.

One explanation for the difference could be that the original nipple threads were corroded and it couldn't be removed, so it had to be drilled out. The smith then opened up the hole and installed the larger thread musket nipple.

In any case, this would be clue to me that the pistol may not have been well maintained, so check the bore very carefully. You might also want to remove the lock and barrel and check for corrosion underneath the wood. The drum may have a cleanout screw; that should also be removed and the area inside the drum inspected.

February 1, 2010, 10:18 AM	#5
mykeal Senior Member Join Date: October 8, 2006 Location: Northern Michigan Posts: 2,772	Musket cap nipples have larger thread diameters than regular pistol or rifle nipples; they come in 5/16X18, 5/16X1 and 8mmX1. The thread size for the regular CVA Colonial pistol is 6mmX1. One explanation for the difference could be that the original nipple threads were corroded and it couldn't be removed, so it had to be drilled out. The smith then opened up the hole and installed the larger thread musket nipple. In any case, this would be clue to me that the pistol may not have been well maintained, so check the bore very carefully. You might also want to remove the lock and barrel and check for corrosion underneath the wood. The drum may have a cleanout screw; that should also be removed and the area inside the drum inspected.