Mule Ear Build

I recently acquired a box of parts for a Navy Arms Mule Ear percussion rifle. The barrel, a 13/16, .36 caliber with hooked breech, it is shot (no pun intended) but the lock and other parts are in prime condition. The buttplate is just a slightly curved piece of steel with two holes drilled. There is no stock. Trigger guard is steel and a single trigger. The interesting thing about this is that the lock has a half cock notch but no fly.

I’m thinking of making this my first build. Since the very odd nipple goes directly into the side of the barrel, like a vent liner on a flintlock, this might be an easier percussion rifle build than the traditional one using a drum. My question is what would be the appropriate period for a mule ear equipped rifle? What style of stock would be appropriate?

Dan,

the NA rifle was a half stock. This was almost the norm for Muleys? although Full Stock versions can be found.

Most muleys were made without a half position, but the half cock/no fly is normal for this lock. the rifles two piece trigger system, pretty much negates the need for a fly. Do you have your trigger in the parts? go to this post http://www.muzzleloadingforum.com/fusionbb/showpost.php?post/916873/ it shows scan/drawing I made of the lock and trigger form a NA poor Boy. My Bud and I got to take it apart and measure
things, while we cleaned it for the owner!


Here is My "Miss Muley" as one example of a Side Slapper!




Hope this helps

Respect Always
Metalshaper/Jonathan

FPD,

Forgot to mention, time frame wise the Muley came about in the late 1830's. The Jenk's rifle has it's lock patents showing as 1837, with the first model of the rifle about 1839.

Respect Always
Metalshaper/Jonathan

Thank you Metalshaper. Beautiful rifle by the way. I hope mine turns out half as well.

Flash Pan Dan said:

Thank you Metalshaper. Beautiful rifle by the way. I hope mine turns out half as well.

Click to expand...

How bad can it get, here`s my 75 cal something or other. :haha: