Pistol side plate with recessed bolt holes

[Steeltrap]

This looked easier to do than it actually was. I'm still an amateur at best but it came out OK.

I wanted to build the side plate from sheet brass for a few reasons. First, I wanted the side plate to align and be sized the same as the lock plate, and I wanted the side plate brass around the bolt heads to be nice and even, and I wanted recessed bolt heads in the plate.

I ended up with all that, and got the front bolt placed properly right in the web!!  Miracles do happen!!

The bolts are my "working bolts" not the finished ones. I have a more edge beveling to finish along with evening out the brass around the front bolt hole, and making the front nose a bit skinnier. Once I have that to my liking I'll proceed with inletting the side plate.

These things seem to take longer than I initially think they will....but when they work out it's all worth it.

[Jim Kibler]

Looks like you are doing nice clean work.  Nice job.  My only suggestion would be to study original work a little more when designing.  Keep going!

[Steeltrap]

Thanks Jim. Your comments are much appreciated.

I'm attempting to replicate a Chambers American Flintlock Pistol. I'm not doing a swamped barrel.  And for sure nothing will be engraved!!

[Steeltrap]

I'll toss in this question:   The barrel on this is 11.5" long and it's a 45 caliber. Do I "need" more than one barrel lug to pin the barrel? I'm thinking since I have a tang bolt, I would only need one lug at the front to pin the barrel.

Any comments?

Thanks!

[alacran]

I have four pistols. Three of them are competition quality. All of them have only one lug to pin the barrel. All four of them have 11 inches or more barrels.

[BOB HILL]

One lug and tang bolt is adequate.
Bob

[Steeltrap]

Thanks Gents.