Wood shape around the barrel tang

[mountainman]

Very interesting thread, thanks for the insight..

[jerrywh]

Never assume  just because a gun maker lived in the 1700's his guns are made correctly or the best way.  Many of them didn't  know as much as we do today.  IMHO there is no one best way to do this.  I do it two different ways.  Most longrifles I do like these.  You can also curve over into the barrel.  I don't claim to be right or HC.    I just think it looks good.  

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

I particularly like your second image Jerry.  The engraving and carving compliment each other perfectly.

[Sawatis]

Threads such as this are very healthy.  With input from various contributors regarding a particular architectural feature, a person can first, gain insight and education, and secondly, choose what suits them and their building approach.

Illuminating I would say....pondering the mysteries of the art.
John

[kaintuck]

aahhhhh...............no 'wrong' way to do it then!...

just different flavors of the breach end~ If you are making a copy, then yup....need to copy every detail to make it real~

marc