RE: touch holes If your rifle has only the drilled-in touch hole, you CAN do something about replacing it You'll need to drill out the hole to an appropriate diameter, thread it, and install a liner. Liners are available from most black powder parts suppliers like Dixie, Track of the Wolf, Log Cabin Shop, etc. You can either install a removable liner(the one with the screwdriver slot), or a permanent one, as seen in the video If you don't have the tools, the knowledge, or the nerve, to do it yourself, it should be less than an hour's work for any competent gunsmith
Mike is a National treasure and assett. He could teach a Masters-Doctoral course in Historical American Small arms at the University level. There is no one quite as knowledgeable as him on a broad basis, He is beyond awesome.
I'm a shooter, reloader and history nut. Three of my favorite YT channels and Forgotten Weapons, C&Rsenal and this one. This is a series I've been waiting for. Thank you.
I'm glad to see this series. I bought a cheap Traditions Shenandoah in the early 90s and it gave me fits until it became a gun safe queen. About 3 years ago I got back into buckskinning and decide to get it out and made it work. My Google Fu is strong Grasshopper but it took me a couple of years to learn what to do. Part of that research was watching your building videos, thank you. I bought a L&R replacement lock from Track and fixed the flash hole location by bending the tang and glass bedding the barrel. Now she barks quickly everytime.
Yup... put a L&R lock on my ancient cva Kentucky rifle and it totally changed it. A real pleasure to shoot now and surprisingly accurate. The geometry of these locks is spot on. I can get some serious longevity out of my English black flints.
Appreciate the "measurements" references. Wish I had known this when I started. Spent an hour getting off two shots after my first flintlock purchase. Probably had a lot to do with trying to use black powder substitute instead of the real stuff. Went to a shoot and someone adjusted my flint about a 1/16th of an inch. All the difference in the world.
Well this is a very timely series though I could wish it was a couple weeks earlier... I just ordered my first flintlock though I've been shooting an old Traditions Woodsman caplock for the last 25 years and the new one is a custom gun by Kashtuk so it will be a couple of months before I get to put the new information to use... I just want to say that with your C&B Revolver series (I have 4, 3 Colts and a Remington) and these new Flintlock series you are helping a LOT of people enjoy this sport that we love, Thanks for the hard work and effort you put into these videos...
@@duelist1954 You mentioned that you were from R.I. Are you still around here or moved on? In any case, what club (if any) were you in, and when? Myself, I'm in Tiverton Rod and Gun Club... And have been since 1999, I moved here from out west in 98.... And we were quite heavy into the inter-club BP matches with clubs in lower to mid N.E. Especially the Woods Walks.... Although I've been absent for the past 5 years or so do to a back injury that took me out of the woods for the most part.... And most of our Old Timers have crossed the river.... And the kids these days don't care for anything they can't download.... But I get a kick out of your Videos, and they bring back fond memories of Great departed friends.... So thanks for the Channel....
@@PhilipFear I'm originally from Vermont, but I lived in RI and went to High School and college there. I have lived in Central Pennsylvania for about 30 years.
Good article , I have 5 flinters , 3 rifles & 2 smoothbores, also one wheel lock and one matchlock. One very good way to get a quality flinter which is historically correct ie: it is just like the original ones ,is to buy a kit set from Track of the Wolf ( or other) and either build it yourself or get a competent gun maker to build it for you . Track have a great website and a brilliant hard copy catalogue with photos of actual size parts . I externally cone my touch holes just a smidgen to break the hard edge . If you want a historically correct flintlock military firearm then Pedersoli are hard to beat , their Mortimer rifle is also a very good recreation as is their smoothbore trade gun . Any new commercially made muzzle loading firearm should be checked out before loading . Make sure all the parts work as they should , make sure all holes are drilled through where needed . make sure all the screws are tight and in place ,Before you fire a bullet , load your firearm with powder and a wad of cloth , no lead , fire it and make sure it all works properly and the cloth is fired out the barrel , if there is a malfunction the cloth wad is easier to remove than a bullet . This advise comes from years of hard experience .
I built my hawker flintlock from an investarms cabela’s kit. I will now go and apply the criteria to the lock on my rifle, as I did not know many of the details of how to set up and critique the quality of the lock! Very well done, and I would say not overly so!! The speed of the ignition will greatly improve my ability to hit what I aim at. Follow through with my rifle has been something that has made shooting it accurately quite a challenge for me, this should make it less of a challenge and a bit of a confidence booster. Thank you!
I received my Thompson-Center Flintlock Hawken back in 1977 as a gift and it was, as Mike puts it, a 'flinchlock'. I finally gave up on it but kept the rifle for sentimental reasons. It did not come with any information like what has been shown here. Finally I bought a L&R replacement lock and installed it per the instructions which included exactly what Mike has stated. Oh! What a difference! The old lock was driven by a coil spring which overpowers the frizzen and strikes about half way up the frizzen's face. Now the ball is leaving the muzzle even before the cock stops.
@@charlesmcclellan1095 the coil spring had nothing to do with where the flint struck in relation to the frizzen. It also didn't "over power" the frizzen as it was actually weaker than a proper flat spring--just cheaper to use. I had at least 3 of the T/C Hawken flintlocks and they worked just fine as long as the frizzens lasted. They weren't through hardened. It wasn't a "flinchlock" any more than any other gun. And L&R locks are great but no lock is so fast that the ball is out of the barrel even before the cock stops. None. No more than any center fire bullet is out of the barrel before the firing pin stops. Plenty of high speed flintlock video to prove that.
Great video, lots of useful info. I can only imagine that the thumbs down are from people who are mad at the world because their mother made them clean their room.
Thinking about getting into flintlocks- came across your series- thanks for sharing your knowledge- lots of information I hadn't really even thought about- great video
Loved the video. I’m pretty new to flint locks. Although I have 2 now, I’m always ready to learn more. Thanks and looking forward to the next video in the series.
Hey Mike! I greatly enjoyed this one. It was chock full of good information... and I'm looking forward to seeing the rest on this topic as well! Well done!
Hi Mike, I have been shooting flintlocks for more the fifty years and you never stop learning. I find your channel very interesting and very informative. I will say an excellent Flintlock Lock makes the rifle with out an excellent Lock you might as well throw rocks at what your trying to hit. Keep up the good work!!
I joined my local muzzleloading community at the range near me! I've been learning to shoot flintlocks, despite never having shot a gun before. Super cool!
Thanks for this! Exactly what I like - a good discussion of the physics of the process. Facinating, though a plain backdrop and sharper focus would improve the presentation.
Excellent video. I always believed a delay between the cock falling and the main charge going off was normal for a flintlock, now I know better. Can't wait for part 2. thanks Mike
Thank you for taking the time to do this video. At 75 years of age I’m just getting into flintlocks I purchased a TMM Fowler a few years ago as well as a Pedersoli Blue Ridge in 54 caliber. Because of cancer issues another life dealings, I have not had the opportunity to get started, but now I am. I found this video to be very helpful. Yes, Lord willing I plan on purchasing a Kibbler kit as well. If God gives me a few more years, I plan on having some Flintlock fun.
I've been thinking of adding a flint to my black powder line up and this was info that will lead me in the right direction! Came along at just the right time. Perfect! Thank you.
Fantastic! I am a long time flintlock shooter with custom rifles and you always give good tips that I was unaware of. Keep up the your great works and thanks.
Great video Mr. B. Built my first T.C. Hawken cap lock kit in the 70's.Since then I have accumulated several more cap lock guns. I recently conquered my flintaphobia with Kibler Southern Mountain rifle. It's the berries!
Mike I have been a long time muzzle loader / flintlock shooter. I have quite a collection of custom rifles, smoothbores and pistols. I also have been an active rendezvous reenactor for over 38 years. Your presentation introduction to flintlocks was quite informative, especially for the beginner. I really like your channel and been following your videos for years. Keep up the great work, the knowledge and history you are passing down is invaluable. Best wishes brother and drive on.
I am waiting for my turn to have a custom built flintlock. My builder said he might be able to get to me this month. This will be my first flintlock and I am looking forward to switching over from percussion. Great video an I am looking forward to the next installments.
Mike, thanks for this flintlock series. I own a Lyman Great Plains fainter in .50 caliber. Bought a percussion barrel and 2nd lock in percussion from Log Cabin in Lodi,Ohio. Also got a Euroarms Harper's Ferry 1806 in .54 caliber. Why telling you this because I've not shot either in flintlock mode. Have shot percussion all my life and now what to back date myself. How you are explaining these things is great. Thanks again.
Great show this morning. I just got into a flintlock this year and I had my struggles. I've used cap locks since the mid-70s and still use them today. I got a good deal on this Austin and halleck rifle because I like shooting black powder and the availability of caps right now is scarce.
Thank you for the series. I know of a man that only has flintlock firearms. He said there's not a firearm made that shoots as good as a flintlock rifle, his personal opinion of course.
Since your asking for comments Mike, for a new shooter video I would've liked to have heard about leather vs lead for a flint holder, how to change a flint, how tight to tighten them down, loose/wobbly flints (after a few shots) etc. Great channel great video
Excellent. When I decided to get into black powder, I watched your videos to teach me how to get started. Now, I know a little bit. But the whole lock class was fascinating. I learned so much I did not know. The only thing I would add is an overhead view of how the flint scrapes across the frizzen and a diagram of the sunrise position.
Good job Mr. Beliveau. I Know there are a lot of folks out there that will benefit from your undertaking of this subject. The more knowledgeable and skilled flintlock Fowler, rifle and pistol shooters there are the better. Folks that are interested is this subject and want to learn about it should consider joining the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association and the Contemporary Longrifle Association. Those of us that understand the true advantages of these types of firearms will all benefit from more individuals becoming involved. In addition, with a flintlock gun you will not depend on ammunition manufacturers and such ever again. To those to whom that are new… welcome aboard!
👍 I enjoyed this walk through firearm selection and lock function. Deep enough dive to provide meaningful information without sending us to gunsmithing school. Looking forward to future installments.
Thank you for the fast reply. After seeing your video on Lyman plains rifle, I bought one in cap lock. When my friend passed away I got his black powder guns. I never shot black powder, I watch your videos to learn what's involved in black powder shooting. Please keep up your great videos.
I learned a lot I got a kimbler 36 coming can't wait till I shoot my first flintlock got five rendezvous to go to in Michigan that was an awesome presentation
Hey Mike, I got started with a Traditions blunderbuss caplock kit. Then I was give a Traditions caplock rifle, earlier this year I bought a Traditions flintlock Kentucky rifle. They all work great. Good video. Keep them coming!!!
Thanks for the video I just finished my Traditions Kentucky rifle on Monday! I’ve been watching as many videos as I can before I go shooting! Thanks for the great content it’s really a big help!
@@AtomHeartMother68 thanks man I appreciate it I’m very happy with how well I put it together- with help from my grandpa-pa and his outstanding tools he has. We are very excited to shoot it hopefully we can go out next weekend
Howdy Mike. Just wanted to say I always enjoy your videos. I've been shooting since 1983. But still I enjoyed your beginner's video! You could have made it 3 hours long I dont care. And I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of the videos! The more info the better! The more shooting and experimenting the better . You'll never make everyone happy. The only time you'll hear me complaining is if you stop making videos!!! Keep up the great work Mike!
Nice video. Years ago when I attended a lot of gun shows I came upon a man who made custom flintlock rifles. I was admiring his wares, because I've always been intrigued at the work and art and craftsmanship that went into making rifles in old times. He said 'Pick it up, see how it feels to you" as I admired a certain rifle. He said that one is built for a fellow of your size. I picked the rifle up, shouldered it, and was amazed, totally amazed at the balance, and fit.!!!!! It was so comfortable, not clubby, or chuncky. It held as graceful as it looked. I guess my point being, is a custom rifle, made to fit the owner is a joy to behold. I couldn't afford it back then, but always wanted one made to fit in 40 cal. LOL
@@duelist1954 I hope I did not come across wrong by expounding on the virtues of a fine custom fitted rifle. I agree with you, for new shooters on a budget, get what you can and get into the sport. However, for me affording it is no longer a problem, but health problems prevent me from walking, except for a few yards, and standing for only a few minutes at a time. I got old. LOL I enjoy your videos, and your work. Keep 'em in the center!
Great video! You are so right about starting with a Traditions. They are affordable and they shoot well enough to make you happy when you are starting off for a good long time!
I appreciate your discussion on the touch hole. I built my first flintlock, a Traditions Hawken Woodman Flintlock as was concerned about the placement of the touch. Now I know! Thanks!
All very interesting, Mike! After this series, would you consider doing a video on cleaning, care and maintenance in the centuries before we had petroleum?
I'm a cap lock guy because of the lack of available BP in my area. which is just down the road from L&R lock company. Keep going Mr. B. You will hit on some info I'll need sooner or later.
Loved the info. About 30 years ago I bought a longrifle at a gunshow mainly because of its beautiful curly maple stock. It has interchangeable flint and percussion locks. I never had much luck with the flint lock. Maybe your with your tips I'll take a closer look at it. The rifle has no brand name on it just the word Lancaster on top of the barrel. It might be semi- custom. The end of the breech plug seemed to be slightly blocking the touch hole so I took the breech plug out and ground a little off it but it still had issues.
Mike this was a great video and really interesting. Really looking forward to the next videos you have on this topic. Just purchased a transitions Kentucky kit and was discouraged with how cheap the lock looked. Thanks for the tip at the end about upgrades if needed and I really found all the detailed info very useful. You can find quite a bit of info on flintlocks and black powder online but your degree of detail and expertise are above the rest. Also appreciate the time you take to make videos in authentic gear and share the history of the time period as well. Best channel on RUclips for black powder thank you!
I just bought a traditions deerhunter. It was on sale for 240. I’m sure it’s not like the nicer guns but I didn’t want to invest a ton of money to get my feet wet in Pennsylvania flintlock hunting season. I need to learn and it’s gonna get beat up hunting with it. I’m excited to start shooting it though. Was never interested in black powder till I bought my inline and had so much fun shooting it I decided to go a step further. Really great video to learn! Thanks so much for making this!
Years ago I bought a Pedersoli flintlock and it only went off 50% of the time. Maybe I was filling the pan over the touch hole, don't know. Not having this kind of information and having shot cap locks for years with no problem, I sent it back to Cabellas and exchanged it for a caplock and never had any problems with it. A great rifle. Love your videos, very informative for black powder enthusiast or wanna be's.
Some of the info might have waited for a "troubleshooting for the beginner" installment, but definitely a thumbs up worthy video. I've long thought about getting started into traditional muzzleloading, and just saw about the Kibler rifle kits recently. Now it is like your video is urging me to take the dive.
I always enjoy your videos. I bought a Lyman GPR several years ago and the first thing I did was put Davis triggers and an L&R lock in it. I had Jack Brooks do the work for me. So far it is teaching me the world of flintlocks. Im glad to see this series
Great educational video, many thanks. Practical and honest advice, well done. The more detail the better as some of us are watching these videos to genuinely learn from someone with real experience.
Awesome series! Fellow Rhode Islander here who went the traditions route. Something cheap to hunt with and not feel bad about dinging up in the field. Hoping to get a custom one day! Keep up the awesome videos
I most definitely enjoy this. I just got my first Thompson Center 50 caliber Flintlock. I haven't shot it yet so this is an excellent video for me. I was wanting to start with with a protection and I kept looking at it at the gun store and when I decided to buy it all he had was the flintlock so that's where I am I still haven't shot it yet but I'm excited to shoot it. I know this was only put out 19 hours ago so I'm really looking forward to the other parts. Thanks again for the video have a great day and stay safe and keep your powder dry!
I am fairly new at black powder, but have been in smokeless powder repair for 40+ years. I bought a Traditions Deer Hunter W/wood stock at auction for under $300 new. I liked it so well I picked up a Deer Hunter W/synthetic stock under $300. I just looked at Gunbroker and synthetic stock guns are still under $300. These guns are deadly accurate and there is nothing wrong with the locks. Forty plus years of gunsmithing tells me that the real problem is when inexperienced people start to "Tune" their guns. Here are the three things I do for hunting. A: Buy French flints. I heard English flints are good too, but have never used them. B: Keep your touch hole open. They sell touch hole "Picks" for a reason. Even if you walk around all day with your rifle level, that main charge will pack from the movement. Try leaving a pick in the touch hole about 10 times when you charge at the range and 10 without. The number of misfires with out having a pick or pipe cleaner in the touch hole can be two or three. C: On damp, rainy days every few hours I dump my pan and put fresh powder in. That little bit of powder means nothing if you hunt all day and finally see a deer and get a misfire. There is salt in powder and salt attracts moisture. Early loader season coming up. Good luck.
Great minds think alike! I started in the same way as you. I bought a CVA Kentucky flintlock kit (mine was mail-order) in 1975, and put it together. Boy was I surprised when it went off the very first time I tried it. It was a great beginner rifle. I wish I still had it.
Great idea to do this in your organized, detailed fashion. Everyone out there: go flinter, it is too cool! I got a Lyman/Investarms Great Plains with 1:66 twist. It is a tack driver. Of course, Pedersoli is doing high end GPRs now. I was wondering about Traditions, thanks.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Anyone that would thumb down a production of yours is wrong. You’re a national treasure!
RE: touch holes
If your rifle has only the drilled-in touch hole, you CAN do something about replacing it
You'll need to drill out the hole to an appropriate diameter, thread it, and install a liner. Liners are available from most black powder parts suppliers like Dixie, Track of the Wolf, Log Cabin Shop, etc.
You can either install a removable liner(the one with the screwdriver slot), or a permanent one, as seen in the video
If you don't have the tools, the knowledge, or the nerve, to do it yourself, it should be less than an hour's work for any competent gunsmith
Way too much rambling
Mike is a National treasure and assett. He could teach a Masters-Doctoral
course in Historical American Small arms at the University level. There is
no one quite as knowledgeable as him on a broad basis, He is beyond awesome.
Ditto☝️🤜🤛
International treasure
Got my first flintlock in 1977, been shooting them almost exclusively since. Yet for this old graybeard this is still a fun video
I love the preservation of old technology. I’ve been shooting for 61 years and I learned something new. Thanks
This is a much needed series, and I'm so glad you are doing it!
I'm a shooter, reloader and history nut. Three of my favorite YT channels and Forgotten Weapons, C&Rsenal and this one. This is a series I've been waiting for. Thank you.
Check out Todd Cutler and Cap & Ball (Hungarian guy).
I'm glad to see this series. I bought a cheap Traditions Shenandoah in the early 90s and it gave me fits until it became a gun safe queen. About 3 years ago I got back into buckskinning and decide to get it out and made it work. My Google Fu is strong Grasshopper but it took me a couple of years to learn what to do. Part of that research was watching your building videos, thank you. I bought a L&R replacement lock from Track and fixed the flash hole location by bending the tang and glass bedding the barrel. Now she barks quickly everytime.
Yup... put a L&R lock on my ancient cva Kentucky rifle and it totally changed it. A real pleasure to shoot now and surprisingly accurate. The geometry of these locks is spot on. I can get some serious longevity out of my English black flints.
Outstanding. I'm looking forward to the future installments, too.
Appreciate the "measurements" references. Wish I had known this when I started. Spent an hour getting off two shots after my first flintlock purchase. Probably had a lot to do with trying to use black powder substitute instead of the real stuff. Went to a shoot and someone adjusted my flint about a 1/16th of an inch. All the difference in the world.
Well covered on the essentials.
Well this is a very timely series though I could wish it was a couple weeks earlier... I just ordered my first flintlock though I've been shooting an old Traditions Woodsman caplock for the last 25 years and the new one is a custom gun by Kashtuk so it will be a couple of months before I get to put the new information to use... I just want to say that with your C&B Revolver series (I have 4, 3 Colts and a Remington) and these new Flintlock series you are helping a LOT of people enjoy this sport that we love, Thanks for the hard work and effort you put into these videos...
Thanks! I’m glad you have found them helpful.
@@duelist1954
You mentioned that you were from R.I.
Are you still around here or moved on?
In any case, what club (if any) were you in, and when?
Myself, I'm in Tiverton Rod and Gun Club...
And have been since 1999, I moved here from out west in 98....
And we were quite heavy into the inter-club BP matches with clubs in lower to mid N.E.
Especially the Woods Walks....
Although I've been absent for the past 5 years or so do to a back injury that took me out of the woods for the most part....
And most of our Old Timers have crossed the river....
And the kids these days don't care for anything they can't download....
But I get a kick out of your Videos, and they bring back fond memories of Great departed friends....
So thanks for the Channel....
@@PhilipFear I'm originally from Vermont, but I lived in RI and went to High School and college there. I have lived in Central Pennsylvania for about 30 years.
Excellent start of the series. This information shortens the learning process so much. Thank you!
Good article , I have 5 flinters , 3 rifles & 2 smoothbores, also one wheel lock and one matchlock. One very good way to get a quality flinter which is historically correct ie: it is just like the original ones ,is to buy a kit set from Track of the Wolf ( or other) and either build it yourself or get a competent gun maker to build it for you . Track have a great website and a brilliant hard copy catalogue with photos of actual size parts .
I externally cone my touch holes just a smidgen to break the hard edge .
If you want a historically correct flintlock military firearm then Pedersoli are hard to beat , their Mortimer rifle is also a very good recreation as is their smoothbore trade gun .
Any new commercially made muzzle loading firearm should be checked out before loading . Make sure all the parts work as they should , make sure all holes are drilled through where needed . make sure all the screws are tight and in place ,Before you fire a bullet , load your firearm with powder and a wad of cloth , no lead , fire it and make sure it all works properly and the cloth is fired out the barrel , if there is a malfunction the cloth wad is easier to remove than a bullet . This advise comes from years of hard experience .
I have an original revolution Brown Bess. A white glove gun. It’s going into auto cad and I will make a few of these precise reproductions.
I built my hawker flintlock from an investarms cabela’s kit. I will now go and apply the criteria to the lock on my rifle, as I did not know many of the details of how to set up and critique the quality of the lock! Very well done, and I would say not overly so!! The speed of the ignition will greatly improve my ability to hit what I aim at. Follow through with my rifle has been something that has made shooting it accurately quite a challenge for me, this should make it less of a challenge and a bit of a confidence booster. Thank you!
I received my Thompson-Center Flintlock Hawken back in 1977 as a gift and it was, as Mike puts it, a 'flinchlock'. I finally gave up on it but kept the rifle for sentimental reasons. It did not come with any information like what has been shown here. Finally I bought a L&R replacement lock and installed it per the instructions which included exactly what Mike has stated. Oh! What a difference! The old lock was driven by a coil spring which overpowers the frizzen and strikes about half way up the frizzen's face. Now the ball is leaving the muzzle even before the cock stops.
@@charlesmcclellan1095 the coil spring had nothing to do with where the flint struck in relation to the frizzen. It also didn't "over power" the frizzen as it was actually weaker than a proper flat spring--just cheaper to use. I had at least 3 of the T/C Hawken flintlocks and they worked just fine as long as the frizzens lasted. They weren't through hardened. It wasn't a "flinchlock" any more than any other gun. And L&R locks are great but no lock is so fast that the ball is out of the barrel even before the cock stops. None. No more than any center fire bullet is out of the barrel before the firing pin stops. Plenty of high speed flintlock video to prove that.
You got me into my 1851 navy now I want a flint lock! Thanks so much for teaching us all these years :)
Awsome videos, the most comprehensive...watching as Irish man living in Bohemia....just got my Austrian flintlock rifle to fire...brillant....❤
Great video, lots of useful info. I can only imagine that the thumbs down are from people who are mad at the world because their mother made them clean their room.
Thinking about getting into flintlocks- came across your series- thanks for sharing your knowledge- lots of information I hadn't really even thought about- great video
Thanks so much for this - This beginner needs a guide !!!
Thanks for the great info, you are an excellent teacher Mike!
Very informative and believe you covered all the questions I had.
Loved the video. I’m pretty new to flint locks. Although I have 2 now, I’m always ready to learn more. Thanks and looking forward to the next video in the series.
I’m a complete beginner I understood most but after watching it several times it all came together. Thank you for sharing you did a great job!
I’m so glad you are making this series! Thank you very much!!!!
Thanks for the explanation. I was having trouble with my set trigger and was able to fix it after watching your video. 🤠
Hey Mike! I greatly enjoyed this one. It was chock full of good information... and I'm looking forward to seeing the rest on this topic as well! Well done!
Hi Mike, I have been shooting flintlocks for more the fifty years and you never stop learning. I find your channel very interesting and very informative. I will say an excellent Flintlock Lock makes the rifle with out an excellent Lock you might as well throw rocks at what your trying to hit. Keep up the good work!!
I joined my local muzzleloading community at the range near me! I've been learning to shoot flintlocks, despite never having shot a gun before.
Super cool!
Thanks for this! Exactly what I like - a good discussion of the physics of the process. Facinating, though a plain backdrop and sharper focus would improve the presentation.
Excellent video. I always believed a delay between the cock falling and the main charge going off was normal for a flintlock, now I know better. Can't wait for part 2. thanks Mike
As others have stated, looking forward to the future installments. Thanks for all the hard work.
I learned a lot of great stuff from this video. Looking forward to the following videos about Flintlocks.
Thank you for taking the time to do this video. At 75 years of age I’m just getting into flintlocks I purchased a TMM Fowler a few years ago as well as a Pedersoli Blue Ridge in 54 caliber. Because of cancer issues another life dealings, I have not had the opportunity to get started, but now I am. I found this video to be very helpful. Yes, Lord willing I plan on purchasing a Kibbler kit as well. If God gives me a few more years, I plan on having some Flintlock fun.
TVM Fowler
I've been thinking of adding a flint to my black powder line up and this was info that will lead me in the right direction! Came along at just the right time. Perfect! Thank you.
Fantastic video, sir. Anyone thinking of getting into flintlocks needs that kind of detailed information. Looking forward to the ensuing videos.
Fantastic! I am a long time flintlock shooter with custom rifles and you always give good tips that I was unaware of. Keep up the your great works and thanks.
Great video Mr. B. Built my first T.C. Hawken cap lock kit in the 70's.Since then I have accumulated several more cap lock guns. I recently conquered my flintaphobia with Kibler Southern Mountain rifle. It's the berries!
Mike I have been a long time muzzle loader / flintlock shooter. I have quite a collection of custom rifles, smoothbores and pistols.
I also have been an active rendezvous reenactor for over 38 years.
Your presentation introduction to flintlocks was quite informative, especially for the beginner. I really like your channel and been following your videos for years. Keep up the great work, the knowledge and history you are passing down is invaluable.
Best wishes brother and drive on.
Been shooting flintlock riffles for about 8 years now. Learned a lot by watching this video. Thanks for what you do.
I am waiting for my turn to have a custom built flintlock. My builder said he might be able to get to me this month. This will be my first flintlock and I am looking forward to switching over from percussion. Great video an I am looking forward to the next installments.
Mike, thanks for this flintlock series. I own a Lyman Great Plains fainter in .50 caliber. Bought a percussion barrel and 2nd lock in percussion from Log Cabin in Lodi,Ohio. Also got a Euroarms Harper's Ferry 1806 in .54 caliber. Why telling you this because I've not shot either in flintlock mode. Have shot percussion all my life and now what to back date myself. How you are explaining these things is great. Thanks again.
Great show this morning. I just got into a flintlock this year and I had my struggles. I've used cap locks since the mid-70s and still use them today. I got a good deal on this Austin and halleck rifle because I like shooting black powder and the availability of caps right now is scarce.
your videos are well worth watching, Thank you for doing them.
Glad to see you again, Mike! Hope you're well!
Absolutely love this series and love your channel
Thank you for the series. I know of a man that only has flintlock firearms. He said there's not a firearm made that shoots as good as a flintlock rifle, his personal opinion of course.
Miki. I am a first team flint lock owner and I think you for us this video
Since your asking for comments Mike, for a new shooter video I would've liked to have heard about leather vs lead for a flint holder, how to change a flint, how tight to tighten them down, loose/wobbly flints (after a few shots) etc. Great channel great video
Good Ideas, Thanks. I'll do a separate video on that.
@@JRB781 if you mean the sawed flints, they are not very good.
@@JRB781 I recommend Track of the Wolf English flints.
I'm not sure why I'm just finding this one. But it's great, as always.
I truly appreciate your channel. Beyond awesome!
This video was exactly what I was looking for to get into this sport.
Thanks Mike. Looking forward to the rest.
Excellent. When I decided to get into black powder, I watched your videos to teach me how to get started. Now, I know a little bit. But the whole lock class was fascinating. I learned so much I did not know. The only thing I would add is an overhead view of how the flint scrapes across the frizzen and a diagram of the sunrise position.
Thanks. I wish I had diagrammed it. That is a good idea.
Good job Mr. Beliveau. I Know there are a lot of folks out there that will benefit from your undertaking of this subject. The more knowledgeable and skilled flintlock Fowler, rifle and pistol shooters there are the better. Folks that are interested is this subject and want to learn about it should consider joining the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association and the Contemporary Longrifle Association. Those of us that understand the true advantages of these types of firearms will all benefit from more individuals becoming involved. In addition, with a flintlock gun you will not depend on ammunition manufacturers and such ever again. To those to whom that are new… welcome aboard!
👍 I enjoyed this walk through firearm selection and lock function. Deep enough dive to provide meaningful information without sending us to gunsmithing school. Looking forward to future installments.
Thank you for the fast reply. After seeing your video on Lyman plains rifle, I bought one in cap lock. When my friend passed away I got his black powder guns. I never shot black powder, I watch your videos to learn what's involved in black powder shooting. Please keep up your great videos.
I learned a lot I got a kimbler 36 coming can't wait till I shoot my first flintlock got five rendezvous to go to in Michigan that was an awesome presentation
Hey Mike, I got started with a Traditions blunderbuss caplock kit. Then I was give a Traditions caplock rifle, earlier this year I bought a Traditions flintlock Kentucky rifle. They all work great. Good video. Keep them coming!!!
Thanks for the video I just finished my Traditions Kentucky rifle on Monday! I’ve been watching as many videos as I can before I go shooting! Thanks for the great content it’s really a big help!
I've got the traditions trapper pistol in flint. The lock is actually quite good. It barely needs prime. You'll like yours if it's anything like mine.
@@AtomHeartMother68 thanks man I appreciate it I’m very happy with how well I put it together- with help from my grandpa-pa and his outstanding tools he has. We are very excited to shoot it hopefully we can go out next weekend
Howdy Mike. Just wanted to say I always enjoy your videos. I've been shooting since 1983. But still I enjoyed your beginner's video! You could have made it 3 hours long I dont care. And I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of the videos! The more info the better! The more shooting and experimenting the better . You'll never make everyone happy. The only time you'll hear me complaining is if you stop making videos!!! Keep up the great work Mike!
Excellent video. I have a used Traditions I bought cheap. Love muzzle loading and cap and ball.
Nice video. Years ago when I attended a lot of gun shows I came upon a man who made custom flintlock rifles. I was admiring his wares, because I've always been intrigued at the work and art and craftsmanship that went into making rifles in old times. He said 'Pick it up, see how it feels to you" as I admired a certain rifle. He said that one is built for a fellow of your size. I picked the rifle up, shouldered it, and was amazed, totally amazed at the balance, and fit.!!!!! It was so comfortable, not clubby, or chuncky. It held as graceful as it looked. I guess my point being, is a custom rifle, made to fit the owner is a joy to behold. I couldn't afford it back then, but always wanted one made to fit in 40 cal. LOL
If you can afford it, get one. A custom flintlock is the best way to go.
@@duelist1954 I hope I did not come across wrong by expounding on the virtues of a fine custom fitted rifle. I agree with you, for new shooters on a budget, get what you can and get into the sport. However, for me affording it is no longer a problem, but health problems prevent me from walking, except for a few yards, and standing for only a few minutes at a time. I got old. LOL I enjoy your videos, and your work. Keep 'em in the center!
@@kentowens2179 Don't worry, I didn't take it badly. I hear you. I'm getting old too.
EASY TO UNDERSTAND, GOOD ADVICE, INTERESTING TO WATCH!
Great video! You are so right about starting with a Traditions. They are affordable and they shoot well enough to make you happy when you are starting off for a good long time!
I always learn so much from you, thanks for posting the information, you are wealth of information!
I bought a traditions Kentucky flintlock rifle 12 years ago, it's a good rifle and lots of fun.
Very comfee presentation on fixes!
I knew some facts about flint locks but quite a bit more after this video Mike! Kind Thanks, a great source of information! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania
Thanks for this video. I'm new to flintlocks and love the information.
I'm now interested in a flint lock rifle! Great video so so well explained! Thank you!
Enjoyed learning the fine aspects cause I surely didn't know all that you presented.
BRAND NEW, shopping for first rifle. Fabulous video!!
I appreciate your discussion on the touch hole. I built my first flintlock, a Traditions Hawken Woodman Flintlock as was concerned about the placement of the touch. Now I know! Thanks!
FYI - The touch hole sits at the bottom of the pan. Per your video, that's too low.
I am interested in getting into Flintlock shooting and found this very helpful ...enjoy all your videos.....
i just found you and love your videos. i got so happy when you said you may have to do 4 parts!!!
I was seriously considering getting a flint lock, and you posted this just as I was hoping to find a video about this very topic. Thank you!
Mike, go for it. We can all ways open our sport to new shooters. God Bless keep up the good work
All very interesting, Mike! After this series, would you consider doing a video on cleaning, care and maintenance in the centuries before we had petroleum?
I'm a cap lock guy because of the lack of available BP in my area. which is just down the road from L&R lock company. Keep going Mr. B. You will hit on some info I'll need sooner or later.
Loved the info. About 30 years ago I bought a longrifle at a gunshow mainly because of its beautiful curly maple stock. It has interchangeable flint and percussion locks. I never had much luck with the flint lock. Maybe your with your tips I'll take a closer look at it. The rifle has no brand name on it just the word Lancaster on top of the barrel. It might be semi- custom. The end of the breech plug seemed to be slightly blocking the touch hole so I took the breech plug out and ground a little off it but it still had issues.
Mike this was a great video and really interesting. Really looking forward to the next videos you have on this topic. Just purchased a transitions Kentucky kit and was discouraged with how cheap the lock looked. Thanks for the tip at the end about upgrades if needed and I really found all the detailed info very useful. You can find quite a bit of info on flintlocks and black powder online but your degree of detail and expertise are above the rest. Also appreciate the time you take to make videos in authentic gear and share the history of the time period as well. Best channel on RUclips for black powder thank you!
I just bought a traditions deerhunter. It was on sale for 240. I’m sure it’s not like the nicer guns but I didn’t want to invest a ton of money to get my feet wet in Pennsylvania flintlock hunting season. I need to learn and it’s gonna get beat up hunting with it. I’m excited to start shooting it though. Was never interested in black powder till I bought my inline and had so much fun shooting it I decided to go a step further. Really great video to learn! Thanks so much for making this!
Another great vid, Mike. Particularly liked the touch hole set up.
Years ago I bought a Pedersoli flintlock and it only went off 50% of the time. Maybe I was filling the pan over the touch hole, don't know. Not having this kind of information and having shot cap locks for years with no problem, I sent it back to Cabellas and exchanged it for a caplock and never had any problems with it. A great rifle. Love your videos, very informative for black powder enthusiast or wanna be's.
Once again, a great video, thanks for sharing and I'm looking forward to the next chapters.
Some of the info might have waited for a "troubleshooting for the beginner" installment, but definitely a thumbs up worthy video. I've long thought about getting started into traditional muzzleloading, and just saw about the Kibler rifle kits recently. Now it is like your video is urging me to take the dive.
Thanks Mike! I always enjoy your videos.
I always enjoy your videos. I bought a Lyman GPR several years ago and the first thing I did was put Davis triggers and an L&R lock in it. I had Jack Brooks do the work for me. So far it is teaching me the world of flintlocks. Im glad to see this series
Great educational video, many thanks. Practical and honest advice, well done. The more detail the better as some of us are watching these videos to genuinely learn from someone with real experience.
Great video Mike. I have been shooting flints for over 30 years but your video was still very informative and helpful. Keep it up!!
This was very good. I enjoyed this possibly most of all I've seen from you.
Very helpful and informative. Thanks.
Awesome series! Fellow Rhode Islander here who went the traditions route. Something cheap to hunt with and not feel bad about dinging up in the field. Hoping to get a custom one day! Keep up the awesome videos
I most definitely enjoy this. I just got my first Thompson Center 50 caliber Flintlock. I haven't shot it yet so this is an excellent video for me. I was wanting to start with with a protection and I kept looking at it at the gun store and when I decided to buy it all he had was the flintlock so that's where I am I still haven't shot it yet but I'm excited to shoot it. I know this was only put out 19 hours ago so I'm really looking forward to the other parts. Thanks again for the video have a great day and stay safe and keep your powder dry!
great video very informative I have been kickin around getting into flintlocks
Thanks for the suggestion of L&R!
I am fairly new at black powder, but have been in smokeless powder repair for 40+ years. I bought a Traditions Deer Hunter W/wood stock at auction for under $300 new. I liked it so well I picked up a Deer Hunter W/synthetic stock under $300. I just looked at Gunbroker and synthetic stock guns are still under $300. These guns are deadly accurate and there is nothing wrong with the locks. Forty plus years of gunsmithing tells me that the real problem is when inexperienced people start to "Tune" their guns. Here are the three things I do for hunting. A: Buy French flints. I heard English flints are good too, but have never used them. B: Keep your touch hole open. They sell touch hole "Picks" for a reason. Even if you walk around all day with your rifle level, that main charge will pack from the movement. Try leaving a pick in the touch hole about 10 times when you charge at the range and 10 without. The number of misfires with out having a pick or pipe cleaner in the touch hole can be two or three. C: On damp, rainy days every few hours I dump my pan and put fresh powder in. That little bit of powder means nothing if you hunt all day and finally see a deer and get a misfire. There is salt in powder and salt attracts moisture. Early loader season coming up. Good luck.
Thank you for an enlightening video. I can’t wait for the next installment.
Great video. Really helping me get into flintlocks. Great Host and content
Great minds think alike! I started in the same way as you. I bought a CVA Kentucky flintlock kit (mine was mail-order) in 1975, and put it together. Boy was I surprised when it went off the very first time I tried it. It was a great beginner rifle. I wish I still had it.
Great idea to do this in your organized, detailed fashion. Everyone out there: go flinter, it is too cool! I got a Lyman/Investarms Great Plains with 1:66 twist. It is a tack driver. Of course, Pedersoli is doing high end GPRs now. I was wondering about Traditions, thanks.