How many current gunbuilders

[smylee grouch]

A fellow gunbuilder and I were wondering how many current builders of Longrifles there are in the USA . There are over 2000 members of this fourm, i think, but not all those are gunsmiths. I know there are alot more parts supplyers now than 35 years ago so there must be quite afew builders to keep them in business. Is there any info as to number of smiths on this fourm site?     The state of traditional muzzleloading thread got me thinking about this so sometimes questions bring up questions.      Gary

[The other DWS]

Gary how do you define "gun builders" or 'smiths",  guys who build to put food on the table as their main income producer,    guys who build on a part time basis  ,  guys who build for fun and friends,   guys who build for their own use and enjoyment with no intention of selling?  and there may be some other classes I'm leaving out.

[Mark Elliott]

I think it is a good question; both of them.  There is a poll function with this BBS software.   Maybe one of the admins will setup a poll to find out.

Mark E.

[smylee grouch]

The other DWS: I should have clarified that a little more, but I was thinking of anyone who builds more than one or two guns as they would be the ones buying the parts etc.  I hope there would be more starting as this would help the parts makers out but might cut into the real custom makers business a little. It shur is nice being able to find more selection of parts now as compared to say 35 years ago.   Flintlocks Forever- Gary

[Dr. Tim-Boone]

interesting