Since Silers are reproductions of original locks, how can you be certain this isn't one of those originals?
(1) You will never find an antique lock that looks exactly like a Siler regardless of how Silers were marketed. I have seen the antique lock first-hand that Bud Siler allegedly used as a model and even it doesn't look like a Siler to my eye. Of course, maybe I was fed bad information about the original model - who knows. Jim might.
(2) Over 30 years of using Siler and subsequently Chambers locks.
(3) The 'boss' or platform (lack of bevel) around the frizzen spring screw mounting hole is a dead giveaway - not an antique characteristic.
(4) The manner in which the slash molding at the tail is accomplished is not the way most antique American locks were hand cut.
(5) The screw pattern is identical to a Siler.
(6) I know all.
(7) Like all Silers, the nose width is too wide (proportionately) when compared to the majority of genuine antique locks.
(8) Like all Silers, the bottom pan flat is too wide when compared to the majority of genuine antique locks.
It's a good aging job and the maker went in the right direction in actually converting a Siler flintlock, as opposed to buying a 'percussion conversion' lock which never looks right. So kudos to the maker for that.
