Well WOW, thanks everyone I'm flattered to hear all the positive comments! I learned a lot on this one, hopefully I can remember most of it. : ) The most nerve-wracking part of the build was probably the checkering, though the engraving was a challenge in it's own right.
It seems to shoot pretty nicely, I shot it at Friendship the Spring of 2021 at the 500 yard rams and targets - TOF spotted for me and we were able to get it dialed in after several rounds downrange. After that I was hitting the target 75-80% of the time even with my bad form. I haven't shot it since but hope to get out and punch some targets with it soon. I can get about a 260 yard shot at my range here and will see what groups I can come up with.
Wow!! As one who remembers your humble beginning I would say that you are now the #1 surviving master of the English rifle. You have learned your lessons well.
I certainly wouldn't go so far as to say that! However I certainly appreciate all the help you have given me over the years, on this rifle and including the first gun I built 18 years or so ago back when you had the Campfire Bulletin Board.
Also got some great help with this rifle from Jim Westberg (may he rest in peace!) and Tom Snyder
I keep thinking that you will show up one of these days to shoot that thing.
Fleener
You and me both Art! I'm hoping this year and the next is the magic time for it to finally happen.
Extremely well done.Paper patched bullets may be the best but you can try lubed ones as well.Lyman 451114 may still be available because of the Gibbs? Pedersoli rifles. Refresh my feeble mind,did I make that lock or??........
Bob Roller
Bob, this is one of Rod England's locks, I haven't had the good luck to score one of yours yet! I have been shooting 530gr PP bullets from Buffalo Arms mold
JIM4435350E and 86 gr Swiss FFg, a combo I got from Art. It seems to work well. I also acquired a Buffalo Arms mold for a 530gr GG bullet but haven't fired any of those yet.
Again, thanks everyone for all the kind words!
Curtis