Bullard Repeating Arms

[Alex Barret]

Hello members, this is a non Parker question. I have a Bullard 3 digit SR#, large frame, lever action in 40 cal. There isn’t much info on the internet I believe due to the limited number that were produced. The company was only in business from 1882 to 1891 making approx 2800 rifles. (large frame & small frame repeaters and single shot)
If this post is in violation of forum protocol I will edit it out or admin can delete it.
My question is do any of our members have knowledge about the Bullard Rifles?
I can post pictures if allowed and requested. I was mistaken on the original posted caliber. Edited post to show correct cal.

For those requesting updates on my previous early model lifter post I have not received a reply yet from the research letter. I will update that thread when received. Thanks again for the interest.

[George Davis]

Post this question on the American Single Shot Rifle Association site and I'd guess you will gain extensive feedback and multiple reference sources for your search on the Bullard Rifle.

[john pulis]

I think Cinnabar did a YouTube on Bullard lever action.

[Alex Barret]

I think Cinnabar did a YouTube on Bullard lever action.

Yes thank-you. He had done 2 separate shows on the Bullard.

[Alex Barret]

Post this question on the American Single Shot Rifle Association site and I'd guess you will gain extensive feedback and multiple reference sources for your search on the Bullard Rifle.

George, thank you for this site info. I just registered on their forum.

[Dave Noreen]

I know nothing about Bullard rifles but would like to see some pictures. My 1884 E.C. Meechum catalog reprint has Colt, Kennedy, Marlin and Winchester lever actions but no Bullard, not to be confused with Marlin's Ballard single shots.

[Alex Barret]

Here are a few photos.

[todd allen]

I luv this stuff! Thanks for posting.

[Steve McCarty]

I knew a fellow who was the preeminent Bullard collector in the US. He showed me his collection. He owned about a dozen. His name was Bud Estes of Bucklin, Kansas. He has been gone for a decade or so. I have no idea what happened to his Bullards. His family is still in Bucklin and you may be able to contact them. They own the John Deere dealorship there. Bullards were known to be better than Winchester 73s. They had their own unique calibers. I remember when Bud asked me if I knew about Bullards. I replied, You mean Ballards?

[Alfred Houde]

Bullard was born in Rutland County, Vermont and was educated in the Springfield, Massachusetts area. He worked as a Master Armorer for Smith & Wesson and was a close friend of D. B. Wesson. He secured patents not just in firearms, but for items like sewing machines, furnaces, calipers, and even a steam operated automobile. He died in Springfield March 26, 1914.

The known .40 calibers were:

.40-70-232

.40-75-258

.40-90-300

His rifles were very well-made and finished but simply could not compete with the hold that Marlin and Winchester had.

Information came from "Vermont's Gunsmiths & Gunmakers to 1900" by Harry Phillips & Terry Tyler.

[Alfred Houde]

Bullard died in his home on 45 Warner Street in Springfield. He is buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Springfield. He has no marker.

[George Davis]

The Single Shot Rifle Association's premier gun show is the Denver (Colorado) Gun Show each May in Greely, Colorado. Very similar to our Southern Side X Side. The other option is many of our shoots are held in Etna Green, Indiana and visitors are always welcome.

[George Davis]

Seeing the picture of your rifle I would surmise your rifle it's "Highly" desirable and valuable!

[Alfred Houde]

https://americansocietyofarmscollectors.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2013-B108-The-Bullard-Rifle-James-Herbert-Bullard.pdf

Most detailed article I have found.

[Alex Barret]

Alfred, thanks for the info. I came across that article sometime back and it helped motivate me to find out more about this Bullard.

[Alex Barret]

The Single Shot Rifle Association's premier gun show is the Denver (Colorado) Gun Show each May in Greely, Colorado. Very similar to our Southern Side X Side. The other option is many of our shoots are held in Etna Green, Indiana and visitors are always welcome.

Thanks George. I live in south Florida