Judson Brennan: Alaskan Longrifle Artisan: More of the "Brennan School Rifle"

Saturday, October 10, 2015

More of the "Brennan School Rifle"

I am attempting to illustrate the method and progression of Jud's work by showing in detail the steps required for Jud to craft a complex rifle project. The layout drawings and transfers to the stock wood have been included for the sake of completeness.

Notable is the smooth and flowing motion that allows Jud, though skill and constantly sharpened chisels, to produce a clean line of raised carving free from tear outs and gouges. This is accomplished in wood with highly figured grain that presents difficulty even to expert carvers!

(Nota Bene - once again: No felines were harmed in the posting of this blog!)

Judson J. Brennan was born in Lansing Michigan where he developed an interest in early American longrifles, especially the beautiful and artistic flintlock rifles that were hand made by artisans during the Golden Age of American frontier craftsmanship.

Thanks to the friendship and encouragement of mentors like Roy Keeler, as a young man Jud was able to actually handle and inspect the construction, and the proportion and balance of original Pennsylvania Kentucky rifles. He then set out to teach himself the techniques required to build, carve and engrave contemporary examples of these rifles. His work has been featured in many books and articles on the craft and artistry of these tools of the American pioneers.

In 1985 Judson fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving to Alaska where he settled with his family on Tenderfoot hill, 29 miles North of Delta Junction Alaska.

It is here that he built his house, his workshop, and his forge and it is here that he and his sons Jesse, David and Seth produce handmade historical arms and accoutrements in the traditional manner.

The purpose of this blog is to illuminate the beautiful and artistic works of this unique Alaskan family.

The author is collaborating with Jesse Brennan to present a new website for his work:

http://jessebrennanartsmith.blogspot.com

The author of this blog is Peter Marshall. He is a family physician in North pole, Alaska and has known Judson and his family since they arrived in Alaska in 1985. The author has a companion blog featuring his explorations around the State of Alaska.

It is called:

"Adventures of an Arctic Pilot" and it can be found on the web at:

http://k-syrahsyrah.blogspot.com/