Silly question

[SimonKenton]

I was looking at a photo of an old George Shroyer rifle. It was unusual for a York gun as it had double set triggers but what really threw me was the use of keys or wedges rather than pins. When did keys enter into common use?

Ray

 

[pargent]

Some British guns had them by 1776

 

[Pete G]

Generally keys were used on some rifles during "The Golden Age" of the longrifle; somewhere in the period of 1790 - 1815 or so. A lot depends on who the builder was and what school he built in. Some used a key with one end bent down to form the head and some even used headless keys. This is one of the many small details that can make or break a correct rendition of an historical piece. It pays to study and get it right.

 

[crockett]

Good question. On the longrifles the barrels were seldom removed so mostly pins with a very few wedges. I would think that once the half stock and hooked breech was developed- that was when the wedges became the preferred method.

 

[SimonKenton]

I think this was circa 1780-85. Had double set triggers which are rare on York guns. Nice patchbox and very good grade of wood. :thumbsup: Caliber unknown. If I can figure out how to post images I'll put it here.

Ray