Where to start?

[tryinhard]

I am thinking of making a powderhorn but do not know where to start. What size horn should I start with and are there any websites that can help me or show me a step by step process to building one?

Thanks,
TH

 

[Rick Callison]

I started with the video on making powderhorns available from Dixie Gun Works; there's also a book by the Silbeys that's pretty good. The video is better, in my opinion. Answers all major questions. Caution- this is habit-forming!

 

[jethro224]

Just Google it there are a bunch of websites with instructions. The Sibleys book is very good too. :thumbsup:

Here's a couple sites-

http://lumberjocks.com/jocks/decoustudio/blog/2482
http://home.att.net/~mman/PowderHornMaking.htm

 

[paulvallandigham]

Start with something you are going to use. A medium size horn that holds only about 1/2-3/4 lb. of powder is more than enough to hawl around when you are hunting. Generally its going to have enough powder in it for most range sessions, or club shoots, too. As you develop skills and tools, then you can go big, or smaller.

The LumberJock site is very good.

Get the Sibley Book. Its well worth the money spent.

The artistry in horns is something that you can work on AFTER you learn the basics and decide if this is something you really want to do.

 

[boar]

When you get ready to cut the wood base plug, take the horn and press on foam dinner plate, cut out and then fit it in the horn, then use it for as a pattern to trace on the wood. Saves a lot of work. I have made big and small. I like the small to medium horns to carry, not going to be gone from home that long. Dilly

 

[omarick1948]

Tryinhand,
Like Paul mentioned. You don't really need a large horn. Start simple and learn through researching several source's. Basic powder horn making is not "Rocket Science", but it takes patience and time to do it right. Their are serveral suppliers of horns from cow to buffalo. Good raw cow horns are pricey, so be willing to shell out a few hard bucks for a good one. Nobody has said it yet, but a lot of people buy raw horns from John Shorb at powderhornsandmore.com

Have fun and good luck, :thumbsup:
Rick

 

[Curtis Makamson]

...and speaking of powderhornsandmore.com, their descriptions of horns that are for sale have been dead on. Providing a bit of detail about their horns is a much appreciated positive feature of this site.