I have a new shop to play in and am thinking about 3 percussion muzzle loaders( actualy 4 one for the gentleman I hope to have stock them). My grabdsins are 7, 6, and 2 hes a little young yet bt will grow into it. All are smaller structured so weight and length are an issue for now
What I have in mind is a scaled down Hawken style rifle in 32 or 36 caliber. Maybe use the smaller pistol lock and trigger group would like double set triggers also. Im thinking siler right now.
I an planning on tapered octagon barrels I will contour remember new shop LOL and fit breech plugs. Would also like the "covered / shielded" nipples. Am thinking a 24" barrel length for these boys rifles. For the friends I may go to a 40 cal blank and 32: length so he can build a nice Ohio deer rifle for himself. Would like a patched round ball twist. I will make the accouterments horn, patch knife, short starter, thimbles and such.
Now for the requested help what barrel makers, what twist, ( i dont want bargain basement but considering this is a 4 rifle build cost will be an issue. Locks and trigger options.
Barrel contour Im thinking from breech forward, 3" - 4" straight section then .005 per inch to muzzle Should make a nice easy to carry rifle the boys can use. Should hold well also. Since Im doing the contouring I can leave the rear and front sight bases as part of the barrel too. I am leaning toward 36 caliber as finding needed things will be easier here. ( I may do 2 40s and 1 for Son in law also).
Any and all help will be appreciated, Thank you in advance for any and all information