Artist's Statement
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Gallery
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I began studying and building flintlock arms in 2003. Attending Dixon's Gunmakers' fair, posting with the AmericanLongrifle forum, and now partway through an Apprenticeship with Colonial Williamsburg, I have been fortunate to learn my trade from some of the best tradesmen in the country.
I have had the opportunity to study hundreds of American and European arms in museums and private collections, including the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Through careful examination and meticulous study, I attempt to take note of the small details that go into original rifles and strive to incorporate these aspects of authenticity into my own work.
Stocks are shaped from a blank using planes, spokeshaves, rasps, and finally scrapers - creating a rifle that has a feel unlike anything made using modern techniques. Locks and furniture are heavily tuned and customized to look truly authentic. Using many of the same woodworking tools and techniques as gunsmiths in the 18th century, I attempt to give my work the look and feel of a fine quality original flintlock. Restoration services are also available for collectors looking to have repair or conservation work done to their antique arms.
I work fulltime at Colonial Williamsburg, and at this time I am unable to accept custom orders on new flintlocks, and am accepting restoration work on a limited basis. Spec guns will occasionally be available for sale on my website and at events. The firearms shown on this website are built with commercially available barrels & locks, and are in no way connected to work performed at the Colonial Williamsburg gunshop. Thank you for your continued support and interest in my work.
I have had the opportunity to study hundreds of American and European arms in museums and private collections, including the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Through careful examination and meticulous study, I attempt to take note of the small details that go into original rifles and strive to incorporate these aspects of authenticity into my own work.
Stocks are shaped from a blank using planes, spokeshaves, rasps, and finally scrapers - creating a rifle that has a feel unlike anything made using modern techniques. Locks and furniture are heavily tuned and customized to look truly authentic. Using many of the same woodworking tools and techniques as gunsmiths in the 18th century, I attempt to give my work the look and feel of a fine quality original flintlock. Restoration services are also available for collectors looking to have repair or conservation work done to their antique arms.
I work fulltime at Colonial Williamsburg, and at this time I am unable to accept custom orders on new flintlocks, and am accepting restoration work on a limited basis. Spec guns will occasionally be available for sale on my website and at events. The firearms shown on this website are built with commercially available barrels & locks, and are in no way connected to work performed at the Colonial Williamsburg gunshop. Thank you for your continued support and interest in my work.
Latest Updates: 11/20/18 - Restoration - Queen Anne Pistol by James Barbar