I'm researching a build possibility of a percussion "Indian Gift" rifle. I've started on some other forums but waited to enquire here. My question is whether this rifle is of interest to folks here or too far from the forum's focus. I ask because the degree of knowledge and technical skill is incredible here.
Here is the link to Bill Armstrong's blog with details, it is the second rifle in the picture.
http://adviceotheprairie.blogspot.com/2011/01/rifles-typically-non-typical-part-1.htmlThis rifle's details are still in question however some consensus considers it a Gift Rifle from the 1840s from the Canadian Colonial Government. It uses a surplus Baker barrel, walnut stock, back action, and hook breech. Some pictures indicate it has a barrel sight with a folding leaf. There is one reported rifle in England and a number of Canadians have them.
The Museum of the Fur Trade is said to have a copy and detail it in their Firearms of the Fur Trade book. I'm verifying that currently. Some interesting comments include the fact the rifle may be too well built for a trade gun. One collector reports that the rifle is a delight to handle, light, and of very good build quality adding credence to this statement.
If I can afford it this is my HC muzzleloader build.