Joe:
Your hammer gun post caused me to think. Perhaps you are correct, although may need a bit of extension. Pin fires have to be cult type of guns. I know three guys that only buy them. Shells now being available, they shoot them as well.
Then we have Damascus guns. I, among others, will sooner own a fine Damascus barreled gun than a steel barreled one of the same period.
These thoughts may take us further afield than Don intended, though.
I wonder if our friend Phail, the guru of rare American makers of the 19th century, is the Chief Cult Leader of guys that treasure these guns above all else?
Best,
John
