Sow's Ear Project Plains Rifle

Grenadier · December 30, 2015, 04:41:26 PM

First, I have never built a rifle but I have a strong interest in building one. Last spring, I was haunting the local pawn shop looking for old milsurp rifles. Nestled in a corner was several muzzleloading rifles. I picked out a CVA that had been assembled but never fired. I figured reworking this would give me a decent idea on building. I remvoed a large amount of wood with several rasps and a small hand plane. Reshaped the trigger guard, inlet the wedge estcheons, removed all modern markings, browned the barrel, inlayed a silver hunters star, refinished the stock with fake Lehman style curl and poured a pewter nose cap. I know what it is but I am very pleased with my first efforts. My seven year old has claimed it and he is ecstatic.

Kent Shootwell · December 30, 2015, 04:56:59 PM

That looks dandy, it will stand out well in any company!

pony express · December 30, 2015, 07:37:08 PM

Looks nice! I wonder if the changes are enough to make it "APS" acceptable?

Sir Charles deMouton-Black · December 31, 2015, 01:50:21 PM

The photo displays a much better result than I expected from your "modest" description of your handiwork. You can be proud to take it to the range. (P.S. I am in no position to comment on its PC for APS.)

Blair · December 31, 2015, 02:36:12 PM

I can not comment on the acceptability either.
It does, however, look like you have done a very nice job overall.
Perhaps, some close ups of the sights will help?
My best,
Blair

Grenadier · January 01, 2016, 07:59:00 AM

Quote from: pony express on December 30, 2015, 07:37:08 PM
Looks nice! I wonder if the changes are enough to make it "APS" acceptable?

I have no idea either but there's a few things I would have done differently if I had to start over. First, I would have welded a longer tang on the breech hook. That would make it more in line with historical examples. Second, I would use larger diameter lock bolts and inlet the washers for those ( still may do this). I would also consider soldering the barrel rail to the barrel or at the very least riveting it in place.

I have a couple custom plains rifles that would easily get me in the club but this was more of a project for my oldest son and to get him a rifle to shoot with me. Plus, it was to give me some confidence in building rifles.

Tascosa Joe · January 01, 2016, 05:30:21 PM

From what I see the rifle should qualify if it is .45 or bigger and depending on what you used for a rear sight. I cannot tell from the picture. U did a real nice job building the piece.

LonesomePigeon · January 01, 2016, 07:46:31 PM

Looks great. I think I am going to try something similar with a Thompson/Center .45 cal "Hawken", to make it look similar to a Hawken squirrel gun with one barrel key. I also hope it will give me some confidence and practice for building a Don Stith kit.

Oregon Bill · January 19, 2016, 11:42:11 AM

Gren, you did yourself proud. Your 7-year-old is one lucky José.