Hey fellas, happened to see all this conversation and I hope you don't mind my jumping in here. Having been a Civil War reenactor for about 3 decades, I know the cost etc. that goes into the hobby, and I like to try and help make it as painless as possible. As a one- man shop working out of a building behind the house, my overhead is low, and I get enjoyment and satisfaction out of doing the work and trying to spread information to the best of my ability. I'm glad you think it's a low price - you'd be surprised at how many folks think I'm charging an arm and a leg.
As to the philosophy of why defarb, that argument has been going on for quite a while. I think the majority of folks who want theirs done are in the Civil War reenacting community although I have been seeing more from the Rev War and Mexican War periods. Basically, it comes down to personal choice. Some folks want their kit to be as accurate as possible. It means something to them. Others are fine with using a gun as is out of the box. Either is fine - it just depends on the individual. Some folks want a shotgun cut down because they do CW cavalry, some folks wouldn't hear of it. I think it's the old adage - it's your gun, do what you want with it. I personally wouldn't put a Leupold scope on my WW II Mauser or my Garand and take it deer hunting, but plenty of other folks never had a problem with it.
Yup, 210 is considerably low considering the work i do, which is why often shun away from defarb projects, same as others.
Stock, reshape pannels and butt, refinish, cut for rammer spoon.
Forge rammer spoon from 1070 stock from an original template. Harden and temper.
Button rammer replacement,
Correct polish 180-220 matte’
Tackweld sling lug to middle band.
Reshape front band to trumpeted opening.
Mark inside of butt plate with viewers mark, outside of side plate, US surcharge is an optional feature.
Attach rammer spoon lug to barrel via dovetail, cross pin.
You tell someone 700 bucks not including shipping, for the work they’re a deer in headlights, however if. You consider that it’s a 30 hour job, it’s not a high price at all.
I suppose it depends how much someone feels their work is valued, or how generous one is willing.
This is not including lockwork, i’ve scrubbed plates and have had an engraver remark with the other factories for 250-275.
And this is what i call the 5 foot test, your customer wants a 1 foot test…. That’s a tall order for 210 bucks.
