I've always looked at the various single shot rifles as three groups. The originals, and their reworked versions. And the clones; with the clones being two separate groups. The first group being high quality clones that equal the originals, plus interchange parts. The 2nd group being clones that don't quite look like originals, don't interchange parts, or are substandard in many ways.
I've owned a few clones of various American single shot rifles, and mostly pass them along after a short period of time. Either because they weren't up to snuff, or I wanted an original. I have very high regard for the clones that are made to original specs, and look like the originals. But not much use for those that don't pass muster, or look odd next to an original.
I had pretty much decided I wasn't going to own any modern remakes of old singles, but then recently came into a modern Ballard remake from when they were in Cody, Wy. I had the gun at my home for several weeks, and couldn't stop admiring the quality, and overall appearance! I'd take one of my original Ballards out of the safe, and compare the two. I just couldn't find anything short of the rollstamp on the receiver, that was different from my originals. I finally broke down and bought it, with no regrets. It's a stunning example of what a clone should be!
Excuse my crummy picture!
