First things first- does the gun fire? Often times the locks on these are such that the gun rarely preforms as it could and your frustration levels will go through the roof.
If you have a good sparking lock, and you feel that it is worth putting some sweat equity into making a good looking Fusil, get ready for some hard work ahead.
But before you actually DO anything, get a hold of a quality Fusil de Chasse if you can, and hold it and study it.
If that’s not possible, look at as many pictures as you can find of historic pieces (not photos of modern production ones as you now have).
Then take the gun apart. Remove all the hardware ( mounts), and begin removing wood. Lots of it. Keep an eye on the originals you hade studied and try and copy them.
The good thing is that there is plenty of material that can come off, as opposed to having need to add material!
I would start with the center of the gun around the lock and breech. From there, work your way forward on the forearm and rearward down the wrist to the butt stock.
I have seen what some members here have done with India made flintlocks and was nicely suprised. It won’t be a high quality firearm but could certainly be a better piece than what the manufacturer produced.
Do not be afraid to ask for guidance. There are great builders here who are generous and knowledgeable who can be of great support.
Good luck and congratulations on your new gun. I’m hoping you love shooting it and growing in your skills as a flintlock shooter!
