I've been working on practice steel and brass plates and I'm looking to practice on some actual pieces, mainly floor plates trigger guards or grip caps. Nothing too difficult There won't be a gun show in my area until September. The "gunsmiths" in my area have not been any help in any aspect of parts or processes associated with engraving. Any suggestions on where I can locate parts would be appreciated.

Regards,

Kevin Monahan

Kevin Monahan
6/7/2006 12:26:08 AM

Kevin, try Numerich Arms, Dixie Gun Works, and best of all visit some gun shows...that's where I recall seeing a lot of parts.

Sam Welch
6/7/2006 7:51:19 AM

Kevin,
http://www.gunpartscorp.com used to be Numrich Arms, one of the largest parts suppliers. The "old time" gunshop is fading away but that would still be the best source for inexpensive parts. I would also check with others in your area as far as gunshows. There are usually a few small shows around that aren't promoted highly that may have a good source as well.

Rex Pedersen
6/7/2006 11:03:42 AM

Sam and Rex,

Thanks for the info. I'll check the websites and there may be one other small gun shop in my area that I found the other day.

Kevin

Kevin Monahan
6/7/2006 12:06:03 PM

Hello Kevin... as Sam mentioned, Dixie Gun Works has a lot of parts, but I would suggest that you try one of their small percussion pistol kits. They have 4 or 5 under $100.00. This way you can get good experience at surface preparation, design layout, engraving on both flat and round surfaces, and final finishing... all with very low risk. If you really mess up bad, there is usually plenty of metal so you can file it down and start over, while not risking a fine piece. And when you're done, you have a fun gun to shoot, or give as a gift to a family member or friend.

Stu Millar
6/7/2006 8:29:43 PM

In line with what Stu says, the Shifter Knob posted on the forum is one of Dixie's kits that I bought in the 70's. If you have looked at the photo you can see it makes into a nice engraving canvas.

Sam Welch
6/8/2006 7:46:02 AM