Cap Box or Patch Box on stock?

[Artificer]

It seems as though Gunsmiths in Hampshire County, (West) Virginia came up with a somewhat unique answer to this question and it was, “Why not have BOTH on the stock?” In the 1830 to 1850’s period, it seems to have been a somewhat common Country feature to have both on their stocks.

In the book “Long Rifles of Virginia,” by Butler and Whisker, the following Makers and rifles are shown with both on the stocks.

J. J. Good, Pg 34, Round Cap box almost directly opposite Patchbox
Benjamin F. Shane, Pg 65, Rectangular Cap Box under cheek piece higher up, Patchbox opposite Side
Jacob Sheetz , Pg 73, Rectangular Cap Box under cheek piece higher up, Patchbox opposite Side
Unsigned Hampshire County, Pg 106, Rectangular Cap Box under cheek piece higher up, Patchbox opposite Side

I never ran across this before. I was checking something else and thought some others may be interested.

Gus

 

[Captjoel]

Yup Gus, that is a very good indication that an unsigned rifle was made in West Virginia.

 

[Jim C]

Hmmmm that is very interesting Gus.....Thanks......Jim

 

[Shine]

:rotf: