I am in the process of purchasing a rifle made by my 3rd Great Grandfather
Thomas Bennett. This rifle is in compromised condition.. it was broken and
the gentleman has done some restoration work on the stock..
It is missing the Lockplate and the Brass Patch box door.. as well as the
inlays.. I wanted to share the photos that were sent to me.. we have agreed
on the purchase price but money or gun has not been transfered
I wanted you all to see this rifle, and what kind of pointers you could provide me
for continuing the restoration. The Gentleman says he has a catalog to order
reproduction parts...
There is a rifle in the Chester County Museum not sure if they will allow me
to make an impression of some of the inlays as well as the patchbox door, with
modeling clay,
to where I could have a jeweler recreate the engravings on a new door..
The signature on the barrel is hard to read but wanted to add it so that
you all can be on the look out for another surviving example... I am sure
there must have been many seeing as this was his trade... they cant all have
disappeared in 175 years..
My question, is there a possibility of finding New Old Stock lockplates, firing mechanisms
etc.. for it to be period rather than Reproduction parts or does that even matter at
this stage of the game?
There are some markings that look like vise teeth that is in the shape of a triangle
could this be a makers mark?
Thanks in advance for any and all responses!
