I recently put one of the Kibler Colonial Rifle kits together, and thought it might be of interest to those who follow this blog. Base price of the kit is $995, but thanks to the heavy amount of prep work that comes with it, this kit is in my opinion a great value for the novice and or not so handy builder like myself.
The kit came VERY securely packed, with decent instructions that were well complimented with useful online tutorials.
For the most part everything went smoothly, but I did break a tap off in the side nail hole (my fault for not being patient enough). Thankfully a friend was able to extract it for me.
After almost wearing out a VHS copy of the Gunsmith of Colonial Williamsburg as a kid, I always wanted to try staining a stock with Aqua Fortis, so I gave that a whirl.
THE VIRGINIA GAZETTE April 13, 1776
STOLEN from the Subscriber, on his March from Augusta to Williamsburg ,
at New Kent Court-house, on Monday the 9th Instant, a very neat RIFLE GUN,
the Stock of Sugar Tree curled, made pretty dark by Aquafortis,
a Brass Box and Brass wire, flourished in the Breech, and J. Grattan on the Barrel,
below the hind Sight. I hereby forewarn any Person from purchasing the said Gun,
and will give any Person 20s. who will deliver her to the Printers hereof,
and I promise that no Questions shall be asked.
at New Kent Court-house, on Monday the 9th Instant, a very neat RIFLE GUN,
the Stock of Sugar Tree curled, made pretty dark by Aquafortis,
a Brass Box and Brass wire, flourished in the Breech, and J. Grattan on the Barrel,
below the hind Sight. I hereby forewarn any Person from purchasing the said Gun,
and will give any Person 20s. who will deliver her to the Printers hereof,
and I promise that no Questions shall be asked.
I bought prepared Aqua Fortis and used a heat gun to set it, washed it with baking soda solution afterwards and then applied oil.
Although admittedly aesthetically challenged (I hope to practice carving, refinish and tweak a few things as my incised lines are rough) everything is assembled and functional.
The rifle balances and points well, and the components were top notch. Overall I had a very positive experience with this kit, and would recommend it for neophytes. I hope other varieties with this level of finishing are introduced to the market as it may encourage other first time builders.
It works! November 2020 Virginia Whitetail