Classes or one on one instruction.

[Dabis Attila]

Hello,
 
Have decided to take on building a flintlock rifle from a pre carved component set and would like to have some hands on instruction. The set I have is a R.E. Davis .54 Jaeger rifle that came my way in trade for building a couple wagon rifle boxes and range boxes. My primary skills are in woodworking, building mission style furniture/cabinetry and metal machining. Hobbie skills are gunsmithing, mostly single shots but have built a few bolt actions. Have fitted Highwall and Hepburn/Roller buttstocks/buttplates/forearms from pre carves so I do have inletting experience.

After looking over the components of this Jaeger rifle I beleive that some hands on tutoring is in order
for this rifle.

Would someone know of a builder in Colorado or Wyoming that would take on a student?  I live north of Denver Colorado about 60 miles.

Thank you

[deepcreekdale]

Welcome to the site Dabis. I live in Florida and so can't help much unless you don't mind the commute. You do raise an interesting idea though. Maybe if we had some way to connect new builders like yourself with more experienced ones that live nearby it would increase interest in building. I have only been able to figure out where some folks here live from random comments about weather or fishing stories. I don't know if there are any fellow ALR folks near me or not. Maybe a separate page where those who are willing to help out with hands on teaching could be accessed by new builders? By the way, from your interests it sounds like you have many if not all the skills needed as well as the good sense to ask for help. I am sure you will do fine!

[Marcruger]

A friend took a week-long course with Jim Parker.  Several others were there that same week building kit guns.  My friend speaks very highly about Jim and what he learned.  It might be worth considering one of Jim's classes.  Hope this helps.  Best wishes, and God Bless,   Marc

[MontanaFrontier86]

I have taken a class with Jim Chambers at his home out in North Carolina. It was a good beginner course. The best instruction I have got was from Chuck Edwards. He does 1 on 1 instruction in his shop on whatever you want. Building, Carving, and Engraving. I have learned so much from his 1 on 1 teaching style. He is a real pleasure to be around. He is located in Bloomfield Missouri so its still a bit of a trip for you. My advice for what its worth because I am a newb as well is be prepared to travel if you want to learn and excel at building. I have taken family vacations just to go to building classes while my family explored the surroundings. I have spend thousands of dollars in traveling and buying parts just to learn something.

[moleeyes36]

In addition to the highly rated classes that Jim Parker teaches, the Conner Prairie's Annual Workshop and the annual NMLRA's Gunsmithing Seminars at Bowling Green, KY are excellent sources to learn gun building. 

Mole Eyes

[bama]

I have a class coming up the first week of October that has a couple of open spots if you're interested. $650 total that includes room and board for the week at my place in Warrior Alabama.

[Marcruger]

You must love teaching Jim as that price says you're doing it for free or as mission work. 😊 Where else can you get lodging and food for that time period for $650.00, much less expert instruction? Best wishes, and God bless, Marc

[Sidelock]

Jack Brooks is in Aurora - he has done instruction for years - one of the best builders around today.  Since he is closd by check with him - he had a web site that should be easy to find

[Mike Brooks]

I have a class coming up the first week of October that has a couple of open spots if you're interested. $650 total that includes room and board for the week at my place in Warrior Alabama.

That's cheap. At $650 I Might just come down there and live and watch you build guns.

[bama]

Mike, i'll give you the special buddy price!

[LPTS]

Hi,
can't help you with classes or one on one instructions but I would be more than happy to pass on the knowledge I have gathered  building my 4 muzzleloaders.
If you'd like we could meet here in Loveland, CO
Peter