I am in the process of researching and collecting parts to build an English rifle loosely based on the Turvey rifle from RCA I. So far, I have a Chambers round faced English lock, a 28" swamped Getz barrel in 54 caliber, and some brass castings that may or may not be appropriate.
First, the wood. English walnut appears to be the logical choice. Are there any other woods that were used? And did they favor plain or figured wood? From the pictures I have, it appears the wood is plain and straight grained.
Now, the castings. RCA says the Turvey rifle has silver trim. Does this mean the trigger guard and buttplate are silver, as well as the sideplate and ramrod thimbles? Would it be appropriate to put a silver thumbpiece on a rifle with the rest of the trim in brass?
How about a muzzle cap? The Turvey rifle does not appear to have one, but I have pictures of another rifle that has a brass cap. Is this a function of the time period, the maker, or something else?
Should the bottom of the butt stock be round or have a flat? Again, I have pictures of rifles done either way.
And the Turvey rifle has a sliding wood patch box cover, but this appears to be unusual for the mid 18th century.
Last (for now) can any one tell me where I can find close ups of original sights from the mid 18th century? None of the pictures I have show them clearly.
Thanks in advance for any help.
Dale H