Hi all,
Hope this is the right spot to post this:
Brand new to the forum but not new to flintlocks. Grew up in Wayne County, PA behind a T/C Hawken 50. I've hunted with it quite successfully the past 15 years and still love it but I find myself wanting something more "meaningful"??? If that's the word
I'd like to build (well, most likely semi-build) a longrifle. I've compiled a list of specs the past few years and I'll be honest up front......my imaginary rifle will not be historically correct. Is that a sin?
The lines and shape of the Southern Mountain/Tennessee (SM/T) rifle stocks really catch my eye. However, so does the brass furniture on my T/C, unlike the iron furniture on the SM/Ts.
I hunt deer/black bear here in PA but someday I'd like to chase an elk or other big game so .50 or .54 would be preferable. However, I understand they're not common calibers in a SM/T.
That all being said........as far as lock, stock, and barrel are concerned--which do I start with first?
Deluxe siler, golden age, or late ketland with a rainproof pan?
I'd like to cut a cherry or maple blank off the farm and send it out to have it made into a SM/T but where would I send it?
Straight octagon barrel with a breech plug and tenons for ease and assurance of a good cleaning......also with a twist rate that maxi-hunter or buffalo bullets would prefer over PRB.
Other than not being HC, do any of you guys think there are functional problems/cons with this blueprint for a hunting scenario? Just looking for some advice on how and where to start.
I apologize about the length. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to what knowledge some of you modern mountain men may impart.
Merry Christmas,
Ben from PA
I’m in the first stages of a rifle build. If you get a stick that is preinlet, go with one that is barrel inlet only and inlet the lock and tang/breech plug yourself. Trust me. Will save a lot of stress. I like the Siler locks. Have one on my TVM rifle and am using a Large Deluxe on this build.
Also. Buy at least four complete sets of screws. You’ll be putting it together and taking it apart repetitively and the screws will get buggered up. Have a few sets and when you have it all ready for final fit and finish, you’ll have brand new unused screws to fit and install.
Last, and understand that I never have done this before, you’re gonna make mistakes but if you go super slow, think a lot before you cut, file, sand, drill or hammer, those mistakes will be minor and repairable. So far in as much as I have experienced already.
Now, as far as the rifle itself, I’m more of the type that likes what I like and not trying to be constrained by what is period correct or traditional etc. I have a look I am after and I picked all my parts Al a cart. So I have my work cut out for me. YMMV. But it is fun and I’m already thinking on my next build.
YouTube is a great resource. Look up machinist and wood working videos also. How to cut threads. Plug holes, make tools because you’ll have a problem that can only be solved by a custom made one-off tool. Learn to sharpen chisels and get the best you can afford and they need to be hair shaving sharp. Get good screwdrivers. Gunsmith drivers that fit screws perfectly. Even then, you’ll mess up screws so get a lot of extras.
Sand paper and a good set of files, a farriers rasp and small combination file.
Brass and steel drive punches too!
About all I can think of. Which reminds me. I have to do some adjustments this evening if I have the time.
Good luck and have fun. I’m loving it!
but, i suggest that you cut your wood and get it drying and then purchase a kit like one of these. Traditions Muzzleloading Rifle Kits: Kits will not be sold to NJ Residents they are easy to build if you just follow instructions. Less easy if you set out to do an exceptional job of it. There will be a lot of little problems to solve and that will make it a good learning experience. You can do a follow along here and get help solving problems from experienced people here. You will have a functional rifle when done and will know if you want to move on to something more difficult. 
