by John Schippers. Spiral bound, 456 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". You can learn to engrave in a week, but it will take a lifetime to learn what to engrave. This handbook is full of information on How and What to engrave. Over 2100 photographs and illustrations, most in full color. Over 10 years in the making, specifically for the engraving of historic firearms; a book that both clarifies technique as well as instructing for both novice and advanced engravers. A must for collectors and engravers.
This important work covers tools, selection, cutting, borders, scrolls, tendrils, leaves, design, transfering, cutaway backgrounds, poweer engraving, colt, winchester and more. Truly a must have for every engraver.
by Whisker and Whisker. Softbound, 55 pages, 8" x 11". A list of county gunmakers plus a large section of rifle photographs.
by Julian S. Hatcher. Hardbound, 640 pages, 6" x 9-1/2". For shooters, gunsmiths, ballisticians, historians, hunters, collectors . . . the personal reference notes and experiences of more than 50 years as a small arms engineer, trophy-winning shooter and technical gun editor. All about the guns and how they work, about the ammunitions and its peculiarities, and about the accessories necessary for the complete gun interest.
by Steve Bookout & Alan Neubauer. Softbound, 54 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". This manual describes how to modify an inexpensive lathe in order to turn an extra long worm or rifling guide, building the bench for less than $50 with common hand tools, and finally, how to use the machine that you just completed. Heavy on clear, concise photographs and a straight forward, lain talking text. Easy modifications to make any length of guide, number of grooves, rate of twist, and other details to suit your specific need or particular requirements.
by Mark Wagner. Spiralbound, 54 pages, 8" x 11". A complete “how-to” instruction manual with diagrams on reaming and rifling a muzzleloading rifle barrel. Includes instructions on building a handmade rifling bench and handmade rifling tools.
by Alan Gutchess. Spiral bound, 24 pages, 5" x 8". A guide to the tools and techniques of cutting sheet metal inlays. Well illustrated instructions plus templates of original inlays.
by Dixon, Miller & Ehrig. Softbound, 179 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". A complete, easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide to building a muzzleloading longrifle with simple hand tools. Profusely illustrated with detailed line drawings. Each step of construction is clearly explained and illustrated. Also includes sections on history and use of muzzleloading firearms.
by Peter A. Alexander. Softbound, 8-1/2" x 11". The author began building Kentucky rifles in 1972. Since then, he has apprenticed with George Shumway, and volunteered at the Gunshop in Colonial Williamsburg, learning 18th century gunmaking techniques. In 1983, Alexander began writing a column in Muzzleloader magazine. This book is a compilation of nearly 20 years of those columns, updated and revised where necessary, plus information never before published.
by Buchele and Shumway. Softbound, 175 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". One of the earliest and best step-by-step guides to building a Kentucky rifle. Covers each step of construction, then goes on to carving, engraving and wire inlay. Comes with a full scale drawingof a carved Kentucky rifle.
by James Johnston. Softbound, 42 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". Many very clear drawings by Tom White. Clear, detailed text for step-by-step building of the Kentucky rifle.
by K. A.. & J. W. Wright. Softbound, 48 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". Produced originally to accompany the Hershel House "Building" video, this book includes valuable tips and techniques for building an authentic style Kentucky longrifle. Many photographs and sketches. Also includes sections on Danger Areas, Selecting Gunstock Wood, Disassembly of the Lock, Common Errors for Beginners & More.
by James R. Johnston. Softbound, 33 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". Many drawings with a clear, detailed text for step-by-step building of the Kentucky pistol.
by William R. Brockway (revised second edition). This popular book, first published in 1985 and out of print for more than a decade, as been updated by the author, an architect and enthusiastic shotgun builder and shooter. This book treats the making of double guns of classic style, and is profusely illustrated, showing how to do it all, including full-size drawings with side and bottom plus cross-sectional views. Sharp, close-up photos of many fine original and contemporary shotguns, both flint and percussion.
by Kit Ravenshear. Softbound, 20 pages, 7-1/2" x 8-1/2". This little booklet tells you all you need to know about making v-springs. Part I begins with the basics: choosing the right steel, which types of steel work the best and who uses what and why. Part II "The Shaping", discusses how to shape mainsprings, box-lock springs, frizzen springs and sear springs. Part III "Repairs & Alterations" gives instructions on how to repair or alter a spring that can be salvaged in order to keep a gun original throughout. Part IV "Hardening & Tempering" explains how to turn a piece of steel into a usable spring. This book is a must for anyone who wants to work on guns.
by Dave Waters. Spiral bound, 60 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". Includes color photographs, construction notes and detailed schematic drawings and tips on building a complete rifle. The intent of this book is to show the essentials of what goes into building the "heart" of a swivel rifle, namely the action. Includes a complete parts list and step-by step instructions.
by Monte Kennedy. Hardbound, 336 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". Ready-to-use patterns, complete instructions and well-detailed techniques. Good photos and drawings.
from Dembart. Softbound, 5-1/2" x 8-1/2". A complete instruction booklet in the art of gunstock checkering including proper selection and use of tools.
by James B. Meek. Hardbound, 196 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". A complete, imaginative and detailed introduction to the art of gun engraving. Aimed at the beginner, but also of interest to those who simply appreciate the work of others. Illustrated.
by R. H. Angier. Hardbound, 151 pages, 5-3/4" x 8-1/2". A brief and precise handbook for the do-it-yourselfer. Covers every angle of browning and blueing.
by S. E. Dyke. Softbound, 61 pages, 8-1/2" x 11". Many pictures and descriptions of original U.S. pistols.