Re: M-94 45 LC conversion to 454?

Quote:

Can a Winchester M-94 AE in 45 LC be converted to 454? If so would this be an easy conversion? I am looking for a 454 and I do not like the Puma and I understand the Marlin will not handle the pressure. Thanks for any input!

I don't believe this would be a safe conversion. The basic problem is that, even if the action will hold the backthrust, I believe the barrel is too thin at the breech and is made of steel that is not strong enough to prevent a bulged chamber at .454 pressure levels. In the 1950's, when some .454's were being built on old M92 Winchester actions, it was chamber bulging that caused problems. When barrels made of stronger steels were installed in M92 actions, this problem ceased. I believe your M94 action would hold the round, if you installed a stronger barrel first. Basically, the backthrust of a straight-walled cartridge like the .454 is minimized at peak pressure by the case clinging to the chamber wall. Ackley actually fired M94's in .30/30 caliber with the locking block removed, and the case stayed in the chamber. All that happened was the primers popped out part way!

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Tim50

It would cost you the same amount if not more then it would if you just bought a Rossi 454 M92. That's even if you could find a smith foolish enough to try such a project!! I don't think the M94 could handle it if it was done anyway- they are only rated to 40000 +or-psi! Factory Casull ammo is at 65000 psi! Please just go buy a Rossi Puma and forget this conversion and keep all your parts where they need to be.

That 45 LC you have already is no slug either! With stout loads it's not far behind the 454! I know I have both!

Posts: 115 | Location: Mountain Home ID | Registered: 09 May 2002

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