Thanks, guys.
Tim,
Yes, this is the rifle with the checkered wrist. I'll look for a couple in works photos, but I didn't take many. Thanks also for the pattern for the hunting pouch. It will be my first attempt at a double bag and I am looking forward to makeing it.
On other Fordneys, the KRA book cited in my first post has this and another and a "Dreppard" that incorporates similar elements. The KRA CD (very much worth the $15 or so price) has one, and Kindig's book has another four or so. Ron Luckenbill was kind enough to send some photos that inspired the toe plate.
Kevin,
The nick work was about the easiest part of the carving. I drew a pencil line and then used my version of "Gary's Little Stamping Tool" to stamp a fine line that I smoothed with a sharp skew chisel. (Woodcraft sells a line of Japanese "Power Grip" chisels and gouges for about $7 each. Short blades, mostly handle, but sharp.) I marked a second pencil line for the beginning of the cut. Starting around the middle, I began to make the little chip cuts with another one of those Power Grip gouges. I think it is the equivalent of a 2mm No. 9. Place the gouge on the reference line, press into the wood at a shallow angle and pop up the chip. I did most of the nicks while holding for one or the other of two Hewlett Packard tech reps. Maybe 15 minutes work.
My (wholly unsubstantiated) impression of Fordney's work is that he worked fast. The elements he uses in both his carving and engraving are relatively simple with respect to each cut or stroke and are easy to accomplish quickly. He had a gift for combining these pretty simple elements into a pleasing whole.
Larry Luck
