Jud and Emily and Little Judson
This left handed flintlock rifle from Jesse Brennan's shop is nearing completion and is just waiting for a slightly warmer day (for sighting in!) and a calming down of the Christmas shipping rush to be sent to its new owner. The author apologizes for the duplication of some of the photos - Blogspot has "updated" i.e. changed its format and new habits and methods are hard for old timers to adapt!
Jud has begun work on an exciting new project - a large bore Jacob Dickert style Rifle with a side opening patchbox. Side opening patchboxes are notoriously tedious and difficult to fashion since they require a complex hidden release mechanism. This rifle is being made for an enthusiastic Jud Brennan collector from Western Kentucky. The original rifle that inspired this project is illustrated on page 75 of the KRA/ James Johnston book Kentucky Rifles and Pistols 1750-1850. This is the only known example of a Dickert Rifle with a side opening patchbox, and if you care to know why it's the only one you should ask Jud!
These photos cannot even begin to do justice to the fit and finish of the patchbox lid and the incredibly smooth release mechanism that opens it. Of course, as was frequently the case in original rifles, the location of the patchbox lid release button is top secret.
The last set of photos show the evolving carving around the tang, the wrist and the cheekpiece.
Many of the pictures illustrating this beautiful and unique rifle were taken by Jud's lovely bride Emily.
Today was a perfect day for a visit to Jud and Emma's house and shop on Tenderfoot Hill. A "Bluebird Day" with bright sun and the Alaska Range visible and spectacular. Highlight of the trip was the chance to see the finished Angstadt inspired tomahawk just finished and ready to be shipped to its new owner.
In my opinion this tomahawk is unique because it incorporates original motifs, the result of careful study of an original, into its design. The period aspect of its design is enhanced by the carefully executed patina. This piece features extensive period appropriate gold and silver inlays, which greatly enhance its special design.
Emma is also in the process of photographing this amazing culmination of Jud's expertise, and I look forward to featuring her vision and photographic skill in a future blog.
Finally, just after sunset at 3:00 pm(!) I headed home with the gift of 4 1/2 dozen eggs courtesy of Emma and Tenderfoot Hill Farms and on the way witnessed a beautiful sunset over Mt. Debra and Mt. Hays in the Alaska Range. These are the reasons we love Alaska!
