So I have this project of a golden age Valley of Virginia rifle. My ancestors left middle Virginia for north Alabama sometime soon after the war of 1812. They were fairly prosperous planters, so I am attempting to build the type rifle that he may have commissioned at the time.
What are some characteristics of this style rifle?
The typical carving pattern I have seen is not really attractive and most are incised only, but Ian Pratt seems to have captured the style with an artistic flair that is a considerable improvement, so his is a good reference.
So far I have settled on:
a) A slightly roman nosed stock.
b) Long, sweeping trigger guard.
c) Buttplate similar to late Lancaster.
d) Classic Ketland lock.
e) Long nosecap (about 2”)
f) Patchbox with edelweiss flower finial and pierced sideplates
g) A few acorn inlays with perhaps a smattering of wire inlay.
h) Sideplate similar to a Sheetz style
Am I missing anything? Forestock shape for instance; round or triangular? I would hate to build a rifle and only later find a glaring error in style somewhere.
