building question

[hortonstn]

trying to decide  what to build so openions are appreciated
I need a project after my last beck was sold
what style and cal are the most popular ?
what do you think?
paul

[Old Ford2]

Hi,
To build another gun, I would take a few days and study what type I want.
Fowler, longrifle, plains rifle, the quest is infinite.
After you decide what type, then the style.
What type of wood is available? What type of hardware, iron or brass?
All of the above follow trends, here on this site, and in the black powder community.
Any one of us can have several suggestions, but you have to follow your heart and head.
There wasn't I a great help!
You are probably more confused than before.
Just Google a particular style of gun, and you will get many images.
After you see what you like, the fine fellows here will help you along your way.
That is the best suggestion I can give.
Fred

[Stuartg]

Well, I'd probably decide on what I'm going to use the rifle for. This would help with determining the caliber and maybe even style. My two favorite calibers are a 40 cal and a 54 cal, for many reasons. But heck, you could go smoothbore too! As far as a style goes...what fits ya? What's comfortable to shoulder?

Man, that's  a tough question. After I finish up the Lancaster on my bench, I'll try my hand at a southern mountain rifle, and then maybe go back to PA styles for a Bucks County - I've always loved the look of a Verner. I've done no good here, so I'll quit rambling/dreaming!

[galamb]

If you are building in anticipation of simply selling it, as opposed to using it yourself, there seems to be a shift towards "Virginia" rifles.

Since many seem to prefer "more firepower", I would consider a 54 cal.

Not my personal taste, but seems to be the current "trend" if their is in fact a trend developing.

[Stuartg]

Good point, Graham. There does seem to be a lot of interest in Virginias lately.

[Glenn]

How about a nice Armstrong ....  

[E.vonAschwege]

I never know what I'm going to build next until a client asks me to make something or I am inspired by a barrel, triggerguard, carving, or an entire rifle (as is the latest case). 

Are you building only to sell it?  Take into consideration caliber that folks will be able to use, but build what your heart is into -  It's difficult to build a fine rifle if your heart isn't in it - and customers can tell that as well.  Hard to go wrong with a .50 or .54. 

My 2 schillings for what it's worth - don't rush it.  Browse online and in books, and wait till something speaks to you. 
-Eric

[hortonstn]

thanks for your input, I think ill just wait and see what happens,
im sure when the snow starts flying ill think of something
paul

[Curtis]

Paul, ever think about a trade gun or a fowler?

Curtis

[Virginiarifleman]

What about a nice slim Southern Mtn. 40 Caliber ?

[hortonstn]

Curtis,
You would have to teach me how to dovetail in very thin metal that gives me a nervios feeling
Virgian, last fall I built myself a 40 cal vernier love it only shot it about ten times
Guess I need to shoot it or sell it
Paul

[kaintuck]

A Gillespie??? Nice southern Mtn rifle.....

Marc

[Curtis]

Curtis,
You would have to teach me how to dovetail in very thin metal that gives me a nervios feeling

Paul, Yep I could show you that, or if it makes you real nervous you could solder the lugs on.

Curtis