Thanks Brian!
A lot of the historical information about damascus barrels, I learned through a couple of firearms historians, who are now my friends. They each have web sites devoted to damascus barrels. A lot of interesting stuff on their sites; I think.
I'm with Brian in that I appreciate you sharing how the mechanism of the lock works. I am always fascinated with how things were build historically and can't even imagine the amount of time that this project has incurred in research, design & construction.
You are one of a very elite group who are capable of such a difficult project. We all look forward to seeing your progress with it.
Gary
Very, very nice Steve, you've come a ways since talking about this project in San Antonio last year, way to hang in there. Thank you for sharing, looking forward to the finished piece.
Gary and Doug,
Thanks for the compliments guys! It's been a loooooong road! I just spent the fourth day of work on a damacus breech plug. Still got another full day of work before I have it fitted to the barrel. I could have bought a pre-made steel one for $18. <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//tongue.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':P' /> Making these parts out of damascus increases the amount of difficulty immensely.
I don't suppose you are doing a lollipop breech plug?
I don't suppose you are doing a lollipop breech plug?
No. I've got to chose some things to simplify, to reduce the amount of time and therefore cost of this piece. I am making a straight tang. My decision to use a canon shaped barrel will create enough difficulty in inletting it into the stock, without adding a complicated tang.
Thanks for the links Steve. There is some very interesting information there.
Brian
Awesome work!!
Cheyenne Walker
Apprentice Smith
