First Rifle Build?

[Rich-]

Let me start off by saying I have no idea what I'm getting myself into. Now with that said, I want to build a black powder rifle. I was watching the Outdoor Channel and saw one being used and thought it would be an awesome rifle to have in the collection. I've built plenty of other guns, mostly modern battle rifles and want to tackle a black powder rifle next.

Where can I find quality kits to build on along with the other stuff I will need?

Any other recommendations as to where to read up on the process?

Thanks!

[docone]

There are great videos available.
I got the two by James Turbin.
That will tell you a lot. Then what they write here will really make sense.
Lots of Ahah! moments for sure.

[Topknot]

RICH,Welcome to the ALR. The very first thing to do is buy books and videos of building longrifles. read them and watch the videos... several times . then do it again! when you think you have reached the point that you are starting understand, then it will be the time to buy the kit. Dont forget the tools needed to build your rifle . you cant build your rifle without the tools, so buy your tools  and sharpen them. you will also need a work bench, a vise, a drill press, ect. Good places to buy your kits are track of the wolf and Jim chambers flintlocks.  So get your books and videos first and study,study,study.

                                                                                                    AGAIN WELCOME.

                                                                                                                     topknot

[Dphariss]

Depending on where you are there may be Historical Gun Makers Guilds in some areas that can be a tremendous help to beginners. Clubs that shoot MLs are another place to look. There are also many different MLs out there. We tend to center on traditional rifles here and not the various factory mades so from the stand point of a traditional ML rifle you have arrived at the right place.
Dixon's book on recreating the longrifle is helpful and not too expensive.
http://smartflix.com/store/category/75/Kits-Scratchbuilt
Might save you some money.

Dan

[Rich-]

I will see if I can locate a copy of Dixon's book!

[Tom Currie]

I will second buying this Dixon's book

http://www.dixonmuzzleloading.com/index.php?section=muzzleloadingshop&link=literature

Then purchase Rifles of Colonial America vol 1 from Shumway Publisher so you get to see detail of originals rifles. And if you can see original rifles at shows that are close to you.

http://www.shumwaypublisher.com/

[sqrldog]

Jim Chambers not only has excellent kits of several styles of longrifles and fowlers, he also has excellent videos of competent gunsmiths showing the step by step process of assembling the kits into a fine traditional firearm. They also have a hands on school that you can attend. This info is avaiable on this forum. You also can indicate the general area you reside in and one of the forum members may be willing to share their knowledge and  a little assistance with your first attempt at building a rifle. The more you research and learn, the better your first attempt at building a rifle will turn out.

[volatpluvia]

if he has built plenty of other guns he may well have the tools he needs.  Maybe add a few hand tools or not.
volatpluvia

[Longknife]

Rich, Don't get overly enthusiastic and try to make a fancy rifle right off the bat. Hone you skills on shaping the stock (correctly), fitting parts and finishing first, the fancy one can come later, and I guarantee you will do another one.. or.. two..'or ......three...! A nice plain tennesse, or plain fowler when built right are real beauties....Ed

[WadePatton]

Knowing the historical/geographical aspects of a gun, because everything looks like something _or should _,is a big deal around here.  I didn't get this at first.  You might after a while.

In order to get full support and cooperation from this crew, you'd best put in some study time and pick a style or two maybe three that appeals to you.  Then let the boys talk you toward the one that'd be best for a first-timer (ALR speaking).  You can build what you want anytime you get ready, I'm just throwing some grease out there for you to put in the cogs.

As already suggested, you'll probably want to stay away from golden era engraved and carved guns.

I suggest buying at least two books (and using the web, and resources found here).  One book for building another for history.  Peter Alexander's Gunsmith of Grenville Co. is the best building manual I've seen so far.

Keep it simple.  There's a lot to the simple pieces that you'll only pick up after many hours of study.  And that's better than picking it up after you've buggered the construction.

Hope you learn loads and make a fine rifle or two.  

[Rich-]

Rich, Don't get overly enthusiastic and try to make a fancy rifle right off the bat. Hone you skills on shaping the stock (correctly), fitting parts and finishing first, the fancy one can come later, and I guarantee you will do another one.. or.. two..'or ......three...! A nice plain tennesse, or plain fowler when built right are real beauties....Ed

A simple gun is what I am looking to start with. I probably have most of the tools need aside from a few for fitting the wood.

Which kit from which company would you recommend starting with?

[Dr. Tim-Boone]

Call Jim Chambers or Barbie Chambers and get a kit like this

http://americanlongrifles.org/forum/index.php?topic=25027.0

You will know the Architecture is right and the parts match. The quality is top and Jim's guarantee is terrific.  There are others like Jim Klein who have great kits but for your first one this is what i would suggest.

[Rich-]

Call Jim Chambers or Barbie Chambers and get a kit like this

http://americanlongrifles.org/forum/index.php?topic=25027.0

You will know the Architecture is right and the parts match. The quality is top and Jim's guarantee is terrific.  There are others like Jim Klein who have great kits but for your first one this is what i would suggest.

Will do. I will call him this week and get some stuff ordered along with a book or video.

[pathfinder]

I like Ron Ehlert's video building Jim's kit. Also met Jim at friendship last spring, Great guy! Great sense of humor!