Im humbled

[Daryl Pelfrey]

Maybe thats the wrong word but,,,, seeing the work you builders do on those guns is truly awsone. My buddythinks i do good on building them  but I know better. Im truly a novice and along with that can not afford all the equipment needed to do the build right even if I could. It remibds me of my bluegrass guitar picking. Everyone at church thinks im great but there agajn I know better.
Im glad to be here and get to talk with you. God bless everyone and keep building those beUtiful muzzeloaders.
 Daryl Pelfrey

[Bill Raby]

So build another one. Gets better every time.

[Mike Brooks]

You don't need much equipment to build guns.

[mtlonghunter]

Don't give up . You really don't need all that many tools to do a fine job of it , just learn how to use them better. Read about some of the old timers and what few tools they had. It will surprise you.

[Mark Elliott]

Like Mike said, you don't need a lot of equipment to stock longrifles.   I mostly use simple hand tools.    Otherwise,  I feel as you do.   There is an awful lot of good work here and I will probably never build enough guns to get as good as a lot of the builders on this site.    Don't let that keep you from trying.   You get better with each one.   It is the only way to get better. 

[Curtis]

Like Mike and Mark said, it doesn't take any fancy tools to build guns well, just a few sharp hand tools and some patience... I don't even own a bandsaw.

Curtis

[M. E. Pering]

I have a mill, two lathes, a bandsaw, several belt sanders, at least 50 files and rasps and chisels, an oscillating drum sander a metal bandsaw, 2 drill presses, a kiln, a furnace and numerous other tools of the trade.  Do I need them to build a rifle?  Do I use all of these tools to make a rifle?  No.  Should they be used to make a rifle?  No... Not really.  What you really need is vision and perseverance.  Sharp tools are necessary.  A vision of the rifle that will come out of a blank is necessary.  Knowledge of how to use your tools is necessary.  And your perseverance to complete the task is necessary.  That is all. 

Don't think you can't do it because you haven't got enough tools.  Just a few are all that is necessary, as I am sure many here will agree with me on.  More tools just means you might be able to do it a little faster, but it doesn't make you a better builder.  You will be amazed at you creativity when you are limited to a small tool box.

Also... Don't be intimidated by more experienced builders here.  If you are not experienced, then you have come to the right place.  I had built guns before I discovered this forum, and I learn something almost everyday here.  Never think any question is too insignificant to ask... You will find great answers here.  This is a place where both neophytes and masters can contribute and share our knowledge, and we all have the common goal of making beautiful arms. 

Matt


Matt

[vtmtnman]

You don't need much equipment to build guns.

After watching Mike B's build on You Tube,which was got me started,no,you really don't.The oldtimers did it all with hand tools,as do most of you guys today.

[Cades Cove Fiddler]

  ... Just now saw your other post with photos of one of your builds,.... don't think you need many more tools,... !!! .... she is one fine looking gun,.... there is a need for good builders,.. let the world know what you are up to, ... build and sell some guns, and get any other tools you need,... GREAT WORK,... and post more pix of some of your guns,... regards,... Cades Cove Fiddler,.... 

[WKevinD]

I am a firm believer in "do the best you can with what you got" and then figure out how to do it better with less.
I too am amazed at the talent here but also realize that it mostly comes down to sharp tools, study and patience.

Kevin

[Craig Wilcox]

The spirit of "Helping" is truly a blessing for those of us who lack experience.
Thanks to each and every one of you.

[fahnenschmied]

Dont look at what folks are building now, look at lots of old stuff - you'll see some pretty slipshod work, awkward curves and layout, ramrods not being centered under the barrel, truly hilarious carving - it should make you feel better right off.

[Bigmon]

Gun work is fun and interesting, but I want to know more about yer BG Guitar playing.
Where ya from?