Here's a nicely executed .62 caliber (20 gauge) fowling piece. This rifle was built following the "Virginia school" of design and is pattern after guns from the mid 18th Century, making appropriate for both French and Indian War and Revolutionary War reenacting. It is fully custom built using all American-made parts. The stock features a sliding wooden patch box and a cheek rest. Both of these features, while usually found on rifles are common to Virginia fowlers.
The lock is one of Jim Chamber's "Round Face English" locks. These locks are generally considered to be the gold standard among rifle builders as they are known for their reliability and astoundingly-fast lock time. This particular lock is in excellent condition, holding nicely on full and half cock and sending a shower of sparks flying when the trigger is pulled.
The rifle was stocked up using a wonderfully figured piece of curly maple. The stock is in excellent condition with no cracks or chips and only a few minor handling marks. There is a small patch that was neatly inletted under the trigger guard. It actually conceals a brass re-inforcing rod that runs through the wrist into the butt stock in order to provide additional strength through wrist; an area which is notorious for cracking. The curly maple patch is very solid and will not fall out or chip. The re-inforcing rod allows the stock to have very graceful lines and gives a very well executed, giving the rifle a very slim look without any concern of breakage; unlike other fowlers. To be clear, the stock was NOT broken or damaged and subsequently repaired. The reinforcing rod in the wrist is actually a build feature designed to prevent breakage.
The overall length is 62" with a length of pull at 13 1/2". The overall weight is 7 1/2 lbs
The 46" octagon-to-round barrel was made by Getz Barrels, and features an great bore with no pitting.
The brass furniture was all directly copied off of original examples and is nicely finished. All the inletting work is tight with no gaps.
This lightweight rifle would be a perfect choice for a reenactor, target shooter, or hunter; all for a price that is comparable to that of an out-of-the-box Italian reproduction.
