Fusil de Chasse - Kit

[Hood]

In your experience, who makes a good Fusil kit? I'm more interested in one that is closer to "in the white" then not.

Thanks

[Bob Gerard]

I have built two Fusil de Chasse kit guns from Pecatonica River. They were pretty easy though the trigger plate was a challenge. (I have a thread on this somewhere here) I really like mine (one was sold). It has an L&R lock which is fast but I am told it's historically incorrect. Probably most of the furniture is historically incorrect as well, but I still like it. A lot.
I also built a French Trade Gun kit (Type "D" fusil) sold by Clay Smith. The Black Walnut stock and the lock are from Larry Zornes. I really liked this build and it was a sweet gun to shoot. Fast and lighter than the Pecatonica.
Below are some photos of both kits, before-and-after, and of them together for comparison.
Hope this helps.







instagram download your own photos

[Clark Badgett]

If by “good” you mean a sturdy functioning firearm, then most of available kits will do. If by “good” you mean an accurate (or nearly so) copy, then you are going to have to seek a different route.

[Hood]

Thanks! That information does help.

I'm not too concerned with it being historically correct. More concerned about the difficulty of the build and the quality of the kit.

Thanks again!

[Clark Badgett]

Thanks! That information does help.

I'm not too concerned with it being historically correct. More concerned about the difficulty of the build and the quality of the kit.

Thanks again!

To be honest, most of the available kits bring their own challenges to the table. If you are concerned with ease of build, then look into one of the Kibler offerings. Minor wood fitting, some metal polishing and stock finishing and you got a great rifle that is architecturally correct and will be a joy to use. If on the other hand, you are a handy type of person and are familiar with hand tools, or willing to learn, then order on of the kits and enjoy the sometimes frustrating journey.

[bob in the woods]

Can anyone comment on the R.E. Davis kit ? 

[geb324]

Built one years ago from Track of the Wolf went together great. I dont believe they offer
it any longer supply issues. I would go with Clay Smith looks like a great kit from him. Only challenge may be
soldering on the lugs no big deal if you take your time.

[Bob Gerard]

Clay can solder them for a nominal fee (as can Pecatonica).

[moleeyes36]

Can anyone comment on the R.E. Davis kit ?

As I recall, Taylor commented on that kit in another post some time ago.  Perhaps he could give you some input on their kit.

Don Richards