Herman Rupp

[tbailey]

 Ok fellas, I am going to build or attempt to build a lehigh muzzeloader in the style of Herman Rupp.  I would love to have some input from everyone. Any information, or photos would be of great help.

Thanks

T.bailey.

[Stophel]

All I can say is prepare yourself for massive, soul-wrenching anguish as you try to get it "right".

[rich pierce]

I'd contact Eric von Aschwege; he is very helpful and may have some blueprints.  He's still a pup compared to many but he caught on quickly to the Lehigh style.

[sz]

[horseman]

VERY nice, Rich!

[projeeper]

steve what a wonderful rifle,if that doesn,t inspire/ intimadate no rifle will.

[VP]

I agree with contacting Eric von Aschwege, he usually comes to Dixon's and you can purchase his drawings of the Rupp and Moll rifles from him. They are very detailed and well worth the price. You can also refer to Allen Martin's web site for some good pictures of some Lehigh at www.allenmartinrifles.com. Another good site is Eric Kettenburg at http://web.mac.com/kettenburgs/site/home.html. Eric has some excellent pictures of some originals.

Van

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

Here's an effort I made using RCA #57 for reference.  I used a 45" long Getz .45 cal. bbl., and a piece of Western Maple.  I brought this rifle to Dixon's Gunmaker's Fair in '07 and received several honours.  The best part of that for me was that I was able to handle one by Allen Martin that showed me where I could improve mine.

[Larry Luck]

T. Bailey,
Welcome to the ALR board.
Rupp and Lehigh rifles have a great appeal.  Good luck with your project.
Larry Luck

[tbailey]

Thanks fellas I will drop eric von,  an email for prints and check out the others web sites.  I can see this will be a challenge, but looking  forward to the task.
I really like the photos they will be a good reference.
I have built several guns of  the Lancaster style, but always wanted to build a lehigh.

 Thanks again.

T. Bailey

[Pete G.]

I am having a hard time discerning where Taylor's rifle could be improved, other than to shoot it for a season and knock down the shine a little.

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

Pete - you are very kind!  This rifle belongs to a trapper.  He takes it with him on his beaver line.  I can assure you, the shine won't last long.  And that's why I make them "as new". They acquire patina fast enough without sending them out the door worn and patina'd.
If I were to make another, the first thing I'd do is buy a copy of Eric's blueprint.  And study as many original Lehigh rifles as you can get access to.  There are indeed some nuances that set them apart.