Here's a fantastic Northwest Trade Gun that was custom-built by noted maker Steve Krolick. The piece is a faithful copy of the Indian Trade gun that was "standardized" by the Hudson Bay Company in 1800. Dimensionally, it differs from most modern trade gun kits being offered today, with a dramatically tapered 20 gauge smoothbore barrel measuring 30" in length; with an overall length of roughly 45". These dimensions are identical to original 19th Century trade guns and allows this piece to be quite slender and lightweight in comparison to most other custom trade guns.
Mr. Krolick built this piece to be a museum quality replica; and as such it features all the correct markings found on original 19th Century Trade Guns; including "BARNETT 1829" on the tail of the lock plate, combined with the distinctive "sitting fox" stamp under the pan. The same sitting fox can be found on the barrel, as well as period correct English proofmarks and "LONDON" stamped on the top breech flat. It features the distinctive "serpentine side plate" that was particularly favored by Natives to whom these guns were originally traded. The side plate is actually a casting made off of an original Northwest Trade Gun plate so its dimensions and details are literal perfect copies of the originals.
A simple brass nailed butt plate and oversized iron trigger guard are also featured on this gun; again both features which were copied from original Barnett Trade Guns.
Beyond the quality of the parts themselves, the workmanship of the stock is very good. The walnut stock is very nicely shaped and lightly aged. Tear drop lock moldings and a beaver tail surrounding the tang are the only decorative carvings in the wood; again, keeping in line with what it seen on originals.
Functionally, this gun preforms very well. The american-made lock throws a beautiful shower of sparks with every pull of the trigger, and the barrel features an excellent bore with no rust or pitting.
This piece would be a perfect companion for any fur trade or Native American reenactor. It would also be an excellent choice for a traditional hunter or competitive shooter looking for a flintlock for a smoothbore match.
