AmericanLongRifles Forums

General discussion => Gun Building => Topic started by: Jim Kibler on October 13, 2025, 12:12:59 AM

Title: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: Jim Kibler on October 13, 2025, 12:12:59 AM

I've always liked keys not being captured.  What are your thoughts and preferences?  I've not set the Hawken kit up for captured keys, but might change my mind if it's something others would like.

Thanks

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: JPK on October 13, 2025, 12:21:09 AM

Yes, a captured key is a refinement and a very handy feature in the field. You won’t be selling keys as often because it near impossible to lose them!

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: Steeltrap on October 13, 2025, 12:35:11 AM

Love ‘em.

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: bluenoser on October 13, 2025, 12:48:25 AM

Much preferred.

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: Daniel Coats on October 13, 2025, 12:48:55 AM

Not if they come installed in the kit. I'm thinking about metal and wood finishing.

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: AZshot on October 13, 2025, 12:51:25 AM

I am fine either way.  I've never had a key fall out.  Perhaps allow someone who wants them to order them that way, otherwise Non-captive.

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: Hawg on October 13, 2025, 01:09:38 AM

I very much prefer captured keys.

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: mark esterly on October 13, 2025, 01:17:24 AM

prefer captured.   if slotted keys are supplied the customer can choose the option with a simple piece of wire

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: smart dog on October 13, 2025, 01:21:38 AM

Hi Jim,
I prefer pinned keys with 2 big caveats.  I don't like to pin mine right away.  I prefer to use them a bit before pinning them to see if they need any tweaking or if changes in humidity require some adjustment before they are locked in place.  Fortunately, with a Hawken that has key escutcheons, pins can be hidden behind them and can be removed with the plates unlike keys without plates. The other caveat is that when they are full out, they can be damaged or damage the stock.  I always push mine back in after removing the barrel for cleaning to prevent knocking them.

dave   

Title: Re: Do you prefer captured keys?
Post by: Jim Kibler on October 13, 2025, 01:34:21 AM

Does anyone know if Hawken rifles had the retaining pin below the inlay as Dave suggested or inserted down through the barrel channel?  Was there a standard?