First post here, so hope this is in the right place. Bought a new to me Long Rifle. The insert below is a bit on it's history, interesting. I'd like any thoughts on it's specific link to an original builder's style , ie. Lancaster county, Buck's, Haines etc. Pictures below. The only markings are on the lock, any thoughts on the markings? Guessing Jim Chambers is the place for replacement lock parts and up grades. It's a .50 cal 38" swamped barrel. Never removed a full stock pinned barrel so have not looked under it for markings. So any coaching on best way to remove the barrel would be appreciated. Someone may have removed it at one time and chipped the wood at the back of the tang, hoping photo is clear enough. Any thoughts on lifting the dents and dings by the pins? Any thoughts on stain and finish used? Shoots low for me, groups nice. Any thoughts on where to get taller rear and front sights for it? the ram rod sits proud of the muzzle by2", the forward lock screw stops it. Build flaw I'm guessing, any thoughts on a fix? Considering tapering the rod or notching the screw.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Don, 12 Nov. 2019
Your rifle was crafted by a Vietnam Vet named James (Jim) Callaghan. He is/was a Gunsmith living in Massachusetts, USA in the 1980's.
He made the rifle in the mid 1980's for a man in the “Butlers Rangers” Unit of reenactors in Saint John, NB.
This rifle was crafted for a member of the Butlers Rangers named Doug Fowler. Unfortunately, Doug had passed away by the time that Jim arrived in Saint John for Loyalist Days with his rifle
Therefore, it was purchased by Doug's friend - Rod Bourgoin. ( ? ) in Saint John, NB.
Rod then sold this rifle to Bernie Breau, Moncton in 2018 but Bernie never fired the rifle.
It was then sold to Doran in 2019, who has not fired this rifle either. - Now it is yours.
The barrel is Getz..
The lock is Siler.
Parts are made by Jim (some maybe sourced from Track-Wolf).
Wood was locally sourced.
Rod inform me that this rifle is historically correct for the Revolution period in the South Carolina style.