Composite Fowling Gun circa 1756

[Pennsylvania Dutchman]

On a newly made composite gun I would expect some mismatching of parts and different wear on different parts, with the stock being newest. Pretty much just how you did it.

I understand that a composite or restock would have built with used parts with wear, some parts with more wear than others. I am just having a hard time believing that a colonial gunsmith would have restocked or built a composite gun and left the barrel and lock as rusty as this gun has. But, I do understand this builders reluctance to beat the wood up to match the patina on the metal, I'm not sure I could do it either.
Mark

[Ian Pratt]

Robert - Very nicely done, congratulations on making your first one from a blank this memorable! In the class you were very willing to venture into uncharted territory with your project and you worked hard at making sure everything was done well. A good looking gun, probably going to be loads of fun to shoot with that big smoothbore barrel - probably also worth mentioning that it's not always easy to build a gun around a relatively stout barrel without having the stock look bulky, but you got that part right too with this one. Great job!

[Robert Wolfe]

Thanks everyone for the comments, particularly the (civil) conversation on ageing. I know it is not everyone's cup of tea. I remember many years ago being blown away by one of Eric Kettenburg's "relic" creations and have been fascinated by them ever since. My goal was not to create a piece right off a gunmaker's bench, but rather an old well used gun. If I can work up the nerve to revisit the wood I'll post the results.

[moodyholler]

Who was Roger Lewis? Owner? Builder?

[Robert Wolfe]

The book says "possibly made by Roger Lewis of Farmington Connecticut." His name and the date are engraved on the butt plate return which to me makes it seem more likely that he was the owner.

[k gahagan]

Some very knowledgeable folks have told me they believe the gun was probably made by the Hill family of gunsmiths in Goshen Conn. and that Roger Lewis was the owner.

[Old Ford2]

Hi,
Great looking gun and fine work.
Ageing the gun ( wood ) send it to me for a few months, and you won't recognize your gun.
I can bang up & drop anything it's amazing how clumsy I can be without even trying.
Last week, working on my Jaeger, I dropped the lock, and ended up breaking the pointed tip of the lock 
No, I can't grind it round, the lock is already inlet.
So just think what I could do with your fine gun.
So, I would be glad to help you out.
All the best!
Fred

[Pukka Bundook]

Old Ford,,

LOL!

Re wood aging, I've found a long gun and a short /small truck do a pretty good job. Dragging it in and out soon adds 'wear marks".