what is the best percussion lock???

[quinnconner]

What lock would you pick as the best on the market??

 

[Stumpkiller]

Jim Chambers. As big as your chosen style allows (wider frizzen -> wider flint -> more sparks). I like his L-5 Early Germanic (larger than a large Siler). Of course, any production lock can be further improved by a qalified smith's loving hands.

 

[rich pierce]

A percussion lock is much less finicky than a flinter, so buy one for style. Siler, Chambers Siler, L&R, others from days gone by, you can't go very wrong with a percussion lock. If you will use double-set triggers get one with a fly in the tumbler. Flintlocks are a very different deal as design, geometry and proper hardness of the parts are critical for sending a good shower of sparks reliably into the pan. I have never purchased a flintlock that did not need tuning to satisfy me, and I have bought a Siler from the pre-Chambers days, 4 L&R flintlocks, 2 Davis flintlocks and a Chambers flintlock. Some needed more work than others. My latest acquisition, a Chembers Germanic (Christians Spring) just needed honing/lapping of the tumbler shank, hole, and the bridle where the tumbler axle rotates in it. 5 minutes and slick as an eel, feels smooth as silk when cocking it, sear releases cleanly, and sends loud sparks into the pan.

 

[Stumpkiller]

I'm sorry. I'm insane. I thought he was asking flintlock. Too much hoppin around. :redface:

 

[CrackStock]

Jack,

The best lock is what lock fits the gun that you want to build. You need to focus the question on what you want the gun to be and then pick a lock that best fits that gun. There are many makers out there and some have good and not so good items that they offer. The specifics drive recommendations.

CS