Ive got a really nice Martini action. I took it to a gunsmith to confirm it was worthy of building on. My original plan had been a 303. I even went so far as to have the smith order a 24" octagonal barrel. I planned a simple but elegant build BUT then I began scheming about other builds, while I waited for the Martini to be finished.

When I checked in with the smith, he said that he had a 577 barrel blank that he had been thinking about building for himself but thought about my Martini. He offered to buy the action from me or trade me the 577 barrel for the 303 barrel. We are gonna meet tomorrow to decide what goes where.

Ive got a collection of Martinis (and a Gahendra) in 577/450 and a few in 303. Some are full length and a couple Carbines. Ive also got a pair of "sporter" guns in 577/450 and 303, that look like they were built as a set. So I dont "need" another Martini but I really like them.

Im thinking that I really like to add a 577 BPE in either 2 3/4" or 3 inch. I suppose I might take it back to Africa; but more likely Id use it for Wild Boar and maybe the occasional Whitetails. Yeah its way more than I need for domestic game and their are better more modern cartridges butttttt I like it.

Sooooo if I (we) go the 577 route, Ill need brass and dies. Brass I think Ive got covered; but I dont have a clue where to look for a reamer and dies/cartridge holder or who would make them If I have to have them made.

This will be a strictly a Black Powder (maybe substitute) proposition. Id like to go 3 inches but I could be happy with 2 3/4 Inches. Im not sure how long the action will accommodate.

Help