W. M. Large barrel find and question...

[Skychief]

I bought a Southern style percussion with a Bill Large barrel today. I would like to know the barrel's approximate age if possible.

It is marked on a flat on the left side as " W.M. LARGE ". This marking is in a rainbow (crescent) shape. Also, the muzzle is stamped with a capital "L". I found that the rifling is left hand twist (was this the norm?).

The barrel happens to be 45 caliber, ~42", 1" atf.

Can any of you hazzard a guess as to this barrel's age? Any other Bill Large barrel tidbits are very welcomed as this is my first. Thanks!

 

[stude11]

Bill Large had a pretty good rep as a barrel maker. When I was more into the Civil War, he was the go-to guy for a Springfield musket barrel if you wanted a real shooter. That was back in the late 70's, and I think I read that Bill passed on in the mid 80's. He was also a charter member of the NMLRA and one of the 'founding fathers' of the modern muzzleloading movement way back when. Good guy.

 

[ohio ramrod]

His barrels are considered to be premium quality. He did not make a large volume but was considered one of the best barrel makers.

 

[Cutfingers]

I have a W.M. Large in 40 cal marked with the "JJJJ" and the "L" and was made by Bill himself. Have seen them going for as much as $800 unused. Most likly dates from the 70's but I'm sure there are those out there better informed than I. Another feature is the depth of the groves. Mine are .015 and makes for great accuracy but hell to clean.

 

[paulvallandigham]

As I under Bill's "System", the early barrels were marked with the L representing "Large", his surname. He added the letters "J" to the barrels as each of his 4 daughters were born, as all have first names beginning with the letter "J". I don't know the information on the dates of the different letters, but have been told that it is the early barrels that have ONLY the "L" on them.

I hope that heads you in the right direction. Someone at the NMLRA office should be able to put you in touch with experts on Bill Large Barrels. :thumbsup:

 

[Skychief]

Thanks for the replies guys. Still hoping that someone here can help me date this barrel as close as possible. I will try to check through the NMLRA too Paul.

 

[zampilot]

I saw a "Wm.Large" barrel at a trade show today, think it was on a Vincent style rifle. I should have taken notes!

 

[shortstring]

There was a discussion last year about this, search the flintlock forum "W. M. Large." Your barrel was made pre mid 60s according to Bills son-in-law who worked in Bills shop at that time.

Paul

 

[Skychief]

Thanks Paul. I have tried some searches to no avail....will try your suggestion!

 

[Skychief]

There was a discussion last year about this, search the flintlock forum "W. M. Large." Your barrel was made pre mid 60s according to Bills son-in-law who worked in Bills shop at that time.

Paul

Hey Paul....I found the thread thanks to you. It was just what I needed to read and was a fountain of information. Many thanks friend! :bow: