Old Style Patchbox Door Release

[Zonie]

When I built my latest gun, it was to be from the 1750-1765 era.
Because Brass patchboxes are relatively easy to inlet, I chose a early 2 piece style "Rupp" and modified it to be a simple "fleur-de-lis".
Because this was about the time that brass patchbox lids were first showing up in American guns, I felt that some sort of simple release could be used so I proceeded to bend some spring stock I had into a S shape and soldered a small brass rectanglar button onto it.
This button fits thru a notch in the door, and is spring loaded forward so the door pushes it out of the way when it is closeing, but the spring pressure forces the button forward to trap the door in a closed position.

Shumway's Rifles of Colonial America shows similar door catches on guns #43, 103 and 115.

IMO, this design would only be appropriate for the early American guns as the push button design seems to have replaced it in later years.

 

[Randal Zartman]

Shumway's Rifles of Colonial America shows similar door catches on guns #43, 103 and 115.

Books with knowledge and inspiration, I think I know what I want for my Birthday. Thanks Zonie for the suggestion.
Is your patchbox finished in plain form for that period or do you anticipate scratching on it some?
Later
Zman

 

There are two volumes, and very pricey, but worth it.Check out Barnes and Noble used. There is the set for about 200 bucks, or the two volumes seperately from two different sources at about 63 bucks ( a Deal). just FYI Bill

 

[Zonie]

Or you can buy from the Author himself.
For Christmas, my wife ordered both volume I and II for me.
George personally autographed and dated both of them.

As the link below says, the price of Vol I and II are $60 each plus postage.

His address is
www.shumwaypublisher.com

or call him or his very helpful wife at
1-888-748-6929

 

[Randal Zartman]

Zonie,
Neat thing about Shumway publishing is I live with 25 miles of them. They are so close that I usually forget about them. I think I will spend some time at their website. Thanks.
Zman