Prickett's Fort here in WV had a muzzleloading and accoutrement show today. I had an interesting conversation with Ed Rayl, as he had brought a few original rifles and parts. We got to talking about a variety of subjects, among them being Diederot's Encyclopedia and the Portuegese book called "The Perfect Gun."
He offered a unique perspective on studying the old ways. He mentioned that a great deal has been lost due to the craftsman of the day having guarded their methodology quite closely. They were, after all, business men above all else, and if they figured out a way to do something a little easier or more effectively than their competetor, it would have been a trade secret they were unlikely to divulge. The contributors to the Portuguese book, for instance, used pseudonyms, because if they hadn't they would have been shunned or worse.
I didn't even know who he was until I looked down at his business card. Pretty neat. He's quite a nice fellow and I enjoyed chatting with him about all things 18th century.
He offered a unique perspective on studying the old ways. He mentioned that a great deal has been lost due to the craftsman of the day having guarded their methodology quite closely. They were, after all, business men above all else, and if they figured out a way to do something a little easier or more effectively than their competetor, it would have been a trade secret they were unlikely to divulge. The contributors to the Portuguese book, for instance, used pseudonyms, because if they hadn't they would have been shunned or worse.
I didn't even know who he was until I looked down at his business card. Pretty neat. He's quite a nice fellow and I enjoyed chatting with him about all things 18th century.