Last week I traveled to PA to assist in a Kibler Kit class for Vets through an organization called “Hunts for Healing” (HFH). HFH is a local (and I think excellent) organization dedicated to helping combat wounded Vets reconnect with civilian life, share like experiences with other Vets, and navigate other issues associated with their experiences. Throughout the year, HFH hosts various events such as family river float trips, turkey hunts, flintlock deer hunts, etc. One of the most popular events is the Kibler flintlock building class.
This year we assembled the Woodsrunner kit. Kevin Dougherty (WkevinD), a fellow ALR member who lives in the area, also assisted again this year with the class. Kevin has been involved for the last few years, and his expertise and contribution is greatly appreciated, and very beneficial. Wayne Blaker (another close by ALR member) also stopped by for a day. Always great to see Wayne!
A little on the Woodsrunner…. Jim hit this one out of the park! Especially for someone who has never attempted this sort of endeavor, it’s absolutely amazing. The fit and finish, the attention to detail, it’s ease of assembly, to me, makes it the perfect “starter” kit. I’d have to admit, that for me anyway, I’d probably want to move onto something a little more advanced such as a Chambers kit, but for a first time builder, this is perfect. Definitely sets one up for success, so very well done Jim!
There were six Vets attending the class, and each was paired up with a “mentor”. The mentor is another vet who has previously attended the class and has at least one gun under their belt. Each Vet has their own workbench and all the tools needed to assemble the rifle. Each Vet pays half the cost of the kit, and HFH picks up the other half.
We started the assembly process on Wednesday right after lunch, and shot their fully finished rifles Saturday morning! We even managed to fit in a pheasant hunt Friday afternoon. One of the things that helps is that the Vets are housed at the facility where the kits are assembled. Typically, after dinner, they’re at it again so they’re not just working during the day. It’s up to them as to how much, or if, they even want to work after dinner, but all typically do. They get some good work time, and I think it adds to the experience and bonding. Plus there’s more than a few laughs along the way!
Some random photos of the class:
Kevin schooling up one of the Boys
I had something else going that evening, so unfortunately, had to leave Saturday before they shot their rifles, so didn’t get any photos of that event. Best,
Ed
