calledflyer, I haven't really thought much about the final finish yet, but thanks for the thoughts.  I still need to see if it even works first.

I did started the final shaping and polishing of parts today though.  So, I guess that means I'm optimistic about everything working out!

Here's a series of picture working on the hammer.  I may go ahead and checker the spur tomorrow so thats done.
Bob

Getting started on the final shaping and polishing of the lever.  Since the lever was manually machined from a solid piece of steel it ends up with a small scalloped edge.  This scalloped edge was cut to a layout line, shaping out the rough lever. 

The above mentioned scalloped lever edge can be seen in the 1st photo.

So the first thing to do is finish the lever shape to the layout line.  Since I do everything manually, this is done with files.  I work it until I'm satisfied with the profile.  The surface will be convex shaped, so this profile will be what you see, at the center of the lever, or the high point of the convex portion.  The second photo shows this profile with a smoother finish verses the scalloped surface.  Even though I'm saying "finished" profile, it will change, as I see fit, and as I move through the shaping.

Before starting the shaping, I need centering reference lines.  These lines can be seen in both the second and third photos.  As I said, these are reference lines, and help me see how much metal I am removing as I shape the convex edges.  While doing this, I use these lines somewhat for straightness, but mostly just use my eyes, in shaping to what I feel looks good.
Bob

Moving along with the lever.   

By the way, the lever is by far, the toughest in both physical work and time to shape!

All the following pictures are showing how I progress in doing the convex shape of the lever.  I work sections, continuing along and as I finish each section, it is blended into the previous.
Bob

Here is the finished action, at least as far as it will go for now.  All the parts are polished, fitted and functioning properly.  I just need to put a few full pressure loads through it to test for the real world function, and not just in the shop.

It is fully finished, except for hardening, and assembled here.  Not sure if I'm going to trim the screws and time them yet, this is normally one of the last things I do.

Some with sharp eyes will see the sides have some scars yet.  All I did to the sides was, using a wide file with 80 grit paper around it, cleaned each side just enough that I removed some of the scratches and milling marks.  I want the side left as flat as possible for latter surface grinding. As it is now, I don't needed to be really careful when inletting and shaping the wood.  From the start I have figured in an extra 10 thousands per side for this clean-up.

I will start on the wood next, but that will not happen until I'm back from the Colorado Collector Show in Greeley, CO in couple weeks.

This gun will be at the show for those that might be interested.  My table is right in the mix with Tony Maddox and Tom Rowe's tables.
Bob

Such beautiful lines.

I am reminded of the line from Wayne’s World, “We’re not worthy!”

At least I’m sure not…..

As always, wonderful work Bob! Can't wait to see it in person at Greeley CGCA show!

Yea he did...





JMH