Well, we have had folks come from Michigan, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, but that's a stone's throw compared to Texas from here. Not real feasible to travel that kind of distance just to watch a bunch of guys drink coffee for ten hours and occasionally wave a chisel around - just kidding guys, you all work real hard... well, most of you ... well, now that I think about it, there are always more coffee cups than band aids in the trash at the end of the day..
Here's a thought - last summer I taught a class out at the Washington Historical Gunmakers' annual event. In an area that is so far removed from what is generally considered the heart of longrifle building territory, a group of very enthusiastic builders have collectively put together this first rate educational opportunity not only for themselves but for anybody who cares to join in. As I understand it they have a guest speaker / teacher each year and also offer instruction from within the organization. Also it's a chance for them to get together with like minded individuals and compare their work, which is always beneficial.
So essentially they have established a very successful event, pulling together longrifle builders and enthusiasts who were perhaps otherwise scattered across the region. I know that setting up and maintaining an event of this nature takes a whole lot of effort. But something that would be much simpler to set up and still very beneficial to you and other builders in your area might be to find a place or places where there is some work space, get together on some kind of regular basis and learn from one another. Everybody has different ways of skinning the same cat so to speak, even a handful of you could potentially help each other in your gun building efforts.
Maybe there is a way to get something like this started through the ALR web site? Also there may be help available to get the word out through the NMLRA, maybe check and see who the representative is for your state and see what he or she has to say. There are very talented, skilled builders all across the country, perhaps some that live close enough to you that once your group was established might be coaxed into paying you a visit some time. Never know until you try.
