Recommendation for first build by newbee

[GriscomRun]

Simplest solution is the Lyman Trade rifle.
Good quality. Butt stock will be comfortable. Does not have the curved brass buttplate that eats your shoulder and is to me uncomfortable. Good quality and shoots well. DO buy Dixon’s book on making lonrifles. As said before it is a wealth of info even if you don’t do a build. Don’t worry about the weight. As said above the kids grow and get stronger. They can handle it just fine.
Good luck. AND this is the place to ask questions and get good answers.

 

[Lbrown]

Another you might consider is Pedersoli. I built one of their Scout .50 cal rifles in flintlock, but I believe it is also available in caplock. It required minor wood shaping (rasp, sandpaper, scraper) and finishing. Spent a bit of time polishing the brass parts. I ordered from Dixie Gun Works in TN. This is a bit smaller and lighter rifle, about six pounds, IIRC. Good luck, whichever you choose. Sound like a fun project for your son.

 

[carl lafong]

I'd say watch all the Jim Kibler youtube videos, of which there are many and get a feel for the product that Jim has to offer...... it enables you to make an informed decision, on the many reasons why a kit from Kiblers is cost effective and shows just how easy it is with Kibler machined parts going into a CNC'd stock...... I'm fixing up a Kentucky Traditions percussion, with a flintlock....to sell ....to get a Kibler kit for myself..... with Canadian dollars.
best of luck with your project............. carl lafong

 

[LawrenceA]

Allot depends on your Budget. How much you willing to spend?

Mooman is right
Suggest that there is a further question or two.
Is it the journey or the product that is important?
Is it a workgun or an heirloom you expect at the end?

Browning is easy to do yourself. Getting someone to blue the barrel is also easy bit cost more

 

[carl lafong]

I'm 71 and have had 45's.... 50's .... and a Lyman .54 which I built ,50 some odd years ago. draw filing the barrel then sanding, corking the barrel and touch hole.......... leave the barrel outside in the rain or pour urine on the bright steel barrel..every day for a week.... when dark enough wash and rub down the barrel with linseed oil... if you are building for the first time maybe practice on a cheap rifle first on first.
I think it's the journey of creating a work gun that will eventually one day become an Heirloom............ C.L.

 

[oldwood]

I second the notion to get Dixon's M/L shop's book , " The Art of Building the Pennsylvania Longrifle ". There are many "how to do it " books out there , but for me, it's still the best.
oldwood