Hollow halfstock underribs

[Mattox Forge]

I have a barrel from a high grade English rifle made between 1792 and 95 by Bass. The rib is detached, and I have been able to study it. It is made of sheet metal formed into a "W" shaped crossection. It is very thin metal, maybe 3/64ths or so. The ends are brazed in. The crossection is very consistent. The only way I can think that this would have been made is by a rolling mill. Has anyone heard of such a device being used to make ribs during that time period?

Mike

[Hungry Horse]

 I would make the ramrod groove by opening a heavy vice jaw the correct distance apart and then driving a steel rod the size of your ramrod onto the sheet metal between the jaws. I then would bend the sides in a homemade sheet metal break. Then all you have to do is fill the ends.

Hungry Horse

[Mattox Forge]

I knew there would be a simple way. Thanks!
Mike

[Pukka Bundook]

Mike,
Some are made heavier than others, but always hollow.
Some tend to be more of a "U" shaped hollow, but know well the "W" shape.
They were likely supplied by the trade even at that date.

Bass took over a very good business!

Can you post a thread on this gun sometime?

[Mattox Forge]

Pukka,
This one is very thin. The original sheet seems to have been a little over 1/32" before any filing. The edges are feathered where the rib meets the barrel of course.
I will post a write up and photos of this gun in the Antique Collecting forum.
Mike

[45-110]

I would think that in that time period they would of used a 2 piece sand cast iron die.
A wood pattern given to the local foundry and then casting cleaned up. Unlike today iron castings where a refined process, The press back method allowed for fine detail.
Of course a rolling mill would offer a a nice finish, but at more initial cost.
kw