[hobgob]

In the next few years, I would like to buy my dad a custom flintlock or Kentucky style rifle. I would like the rifle to have that really really sexy tiger striped maple wood and some custom engraving with the family crest on the butt-stock. Does anyone have any suggestions on where to send my business. This is for my pops, so I'm lookin for the best quality i can get! any help would be appreciated!

[mnrivrat]

There well may be some makers who advertise on the internet so a search might turn up something for you.

One of the things you might try however is a business called Dixie Gun Works . They are located in Union City , TN and sell all sorts of black powder related items including custom rifles of the nature you are looking for. They do have a web site.

Good luck ,and I will say personaly, I am a fan of the long rifle in flintlock, and as you discribe . The tiger stripe maple wood with nice hardware. There is little in the gun world that is more attractive.

ps: WOW - I did a dogpile search for " custom long rifles " and came up with a host of makers.

[Pancho]

I would suggest you join National Muzzleloading Rifle Assoc. They have been the heart of muzzleloading for decades and offer a great monthly magazine with the membership.

[Oldnamvet]

You can go over to www.muzzleloadingforum.com and look at the guns they show. Many look just like what you describe. But hold onto your checkbook. $2K - $3K is not uncommon for a custom gun like that. And you can have up to a years wait in line for some of the builders.

[Pancho]

Perhaps 10 years ago I went to Williamsburg, Va. The gunsmiths there sold there guns for $12k on up and they have a waiting list. I have no idea what they sell for now. Part of the cost is due to the fact that they are completely build with methods and tools of the mid-eighteenth century. They don't even use electric lights.

[fineredmist]

Check out track of the wolf site, there are many to choose from.

[sundance44s]

Here is a good place to buy a custom build to fit ...I have a Lancaster rifle built by one of their craftmen ..They make some really nice rifles ..will fit your budget too ...http://www.avsia.com/tvm/

[Mike OTDP]

If you are looking to buy something immediately, Track of the Wolf has a good selection. If not, I would consider contacting Larry Gardner at www.artandarms.net and ordering something. He's not cheap, but very, very good.

[StrawHat]

hobgob,

Just to add to your sources,

http://www.logcabinshop.com/

I have been dealing with the Kindigs for 40 years and they are good people.

I don't know if the online catalog has any pictures of the custom longguns but they always have a dozen or so on the wall whenever I go in.

Sorry, I don't know of a shop closer to you but the log Cabin is certainly worth at least a phone call.

Good luck

[Brillo]

Two excellent custom builders.

http://www.flintlocks.com/
http://dillonsmuzzleloading.com/