open for criticism??

[Bigmon]

Just finished this couple year off and on project.  My attempt at an Edward Marshall "STYLE" rifle, not an actual copy attempt.  In the last couple years since I started this my eyes have got so bad, I am having much trouble with metal to wood fits, etc.  Not to mention shooting. 
This is one of three I am gifting to my three Sons soon.  It will be a surprise.  All made from a cherry tree I cut here on the homestead for this purpose.  Hopefully the effort will be appreciated.
As I said, cherry wood stock, Ed Rayle barrel 58 cal.  Man does it shoot, cuts the same hole off sand bags with 80Gr 2FFG.
Larry Zornes Albrecht lock, a real smooth and great sparker.  Just a simple single trigger for hunting.  My first attempt at a wood PB from scratch. Chambers Oil finish, I love that stuff.  And finally, I took advise on the gang on here about using LMF Broening.  It worked great, really like it.
Here are a cpl picks.  I have some bad fits, and I am not a carver by any means.  And I do not even attempt engraving, yet.  Though I would like to be proficient enough to at least sign the barrels.
Take care

[martin9]

Looks great to me...I really like the color you got on that cherry.

[Bigmon]

I tried to stain it walnut.  Used a couple heavy coats of Birchwood Casy water based walnut, and not as diluted as reccomended.  But it didn't get as dark as I wanted.
I have cherry, so that's what I use.

[FALout]

Get it out in the sun, it will darken.  Nothing to be ashamed there!

[Steeltrap]

I like it!  Nice work!  Post the "range report" when you can!

[DHouse]

I'd be pleased to take such a piece afield! Much more so had it been made by a loved one. Well done.

[rich pierce]

I like the cheekpiece side a lot. Very nice. When I look at the lock panels they seem wide to me, which results in a flattish and a bit blocky look around the barrel tang. I think the flats around the lockplate could be 50% or less what they are now, and it would give a more sleek look. More pix would help. Overall you should be well pleased to have built a good, strong, handsome rifle.

If you search you’ll find quite a few “Marshall”, “Moravian”, and “Oerter” gun builds for comparison.

[Bob Roller]

Better than anything I ever tried and I like the big bore because the barrel isn't very heavy.Enjoy this one and pass it on to the grandson
you sent pictures of.
Bob Roller

[Pukka Bundook]

What Rich P says above, Bigmon.
nice work!

[Bigmon]

Thanks to ya'all, and I see what ya mean by the lock panel size.  As for a range report, off sandbags it cuts the same hole at 20yds.  I just can't see any better than that.  At least it is a good solid and safe hunting rifle.  I know one of the boys will use it.  They are rough on things, it should hold up.
Wow, now that I see those lock panels, I am tempted to tear it down and get at it with a rasp and scraper, and re-do it all!!
Here are a few more pics.  If I could see better I would have better fits.

[Bob Roller]

I will say there is nothing wrong with the fit or the finish.Not ONE of these long rifles from back in the day when they were the latest thing were perfect.I have problems with eyesight as well but my bifocal prescription works in the shop and as i write this I am using $ Store readers and they are good enough.You can be proud of this rifle and show it in any sort of display including the CLA Show next year.
  Getting off the rifle,did anyone on this forum know that Bigmon is an above average  mandolin player and has taught a teenage grandson as well.
Bob Roller

[Bob Gerard]

That looks like a nicely carved rifle. I would be proud if I were you!
Certainly there are things that could have been done differently but that’s how it always is.
My suggestion would be to post progress photos as you endeavor on your next build. I can speak from experience that there are members here who care enough to offer expert advice. You can decide what to do with the advise, but you can’t go wrong should you follow them.
Again, congratulations on your fine rifle !

[Ed Wenger]

I think that’s a wonderful tribute / heirloom.  My Dad did a bunch of wood carving, birds and waterfowl mostly, of which I have several, and they’re a nice connection and remembrance.  Yes, the panels are a little over size, but I’ve seen worse.  I wouldn’t touch it, personally.  Love the finish.  Best,

       Ed

[Bigmon]

I want to thank you all for the kind remarks and constructive critic,  I do appreciate it.  I will try and keep all that in mind if I do another.  Which since I have barrels and locks, and weed, I may as well do.
One final thing, if you noticed the wood inlet hunters star?  I didn't want it to stain as dark as it did, but it is still distinguishable.  That is Elm from "Logan's Elm"  The tree from Ohio.  I always put a small inlay of some typw in all I have done the last few years.
Ken Netting gave me a couple small pieces from the famous tree and that's how I pay tribute to the old chief Logan.
Bob, how are Eddie and Martha doing?

[TommyG]

That's a handsome gun you built.  Real nice job on the wood PB, especially for the first attempt.  Others have mentioned about the lock panels, but you got many things right on this one.  I think it came out great.

[alacran]

You have a great combo on the barrel and lock. Cherry is not easy to carve due to its soft but brittle nature. A pleasing rifle to the eye, I am sure your son will be elated.