Some of the folks we've been proud to be associated with over the years !
The links included here are in no particular order, just my jumbled list added to as names come to mind and time permits.
American Custom Gunmakers Guild
This is the place to find many of the best gunmakers in one location. The Guild web site offers a wealth of information on custom gunmaking including contact information for all the current regular members. If you have any questions, the lady to speak with is Jan Billeb in Cody Wyoming. She has all the latest guild information handy, including details on the next annual exhibition in Reno. She will also be able to update you on the availability of raffle tickets for this years Guild Project.
David Christman was a partner at the Delta Gun Shop for several years before moving back home to Delhi Louisiana. He joined me again on the ACGG project - 'A Pair Of Sevens'. He is very busy at his new location, but on occasion we are able to twist his arm a bit and get a project on his waiting list. David is a good man to deal with and a meticulous craftsman. Sometimes he can be a bit hard to understand if you don't speak fluent Louisianan. Just kidding about that part, I bet he says that about my Alaskan accent too. While he was working up here in the Pacific Northwest, he was often called "Gator"
Hamilton Bowen - Bowen Classic Arms
Hamilton Bowen builds some of the finest revolvers available today. His designs are precisely thought out, extremely functional and beautifully executed. He builds a wheel-gun that is truly 'fit to ride the river with' . On top of that, Mr. Bowen is a gentleman, a scholar, and a fine judge of whiskey and women (and there's damn few of us left). Hamilton has an amazing knowledge of the wheelgun and, in a slightly different vein, many of the European long guns and cartridges. We cosider it a compliment that BCA uses Clearwater rebores on some of their projects. One day I will ask Mr. Bowen to build one of his finely crafted creations for my own collection.
Michael is a master engraver and an engraving instructor. He is an artist in metal and his web site will get your wheels turning! After I get some work done on some photos I have around here, I'll post some engraving a customer had Michael do on a model 70 project. Watch for a gallery called "The African"
Gary Goudy - Stockmaker
This man will build you a stock that comes alive in your hands. His American classic styling is carried out in a very functional package that is terribly easy on the eyes. Fit and finish are superb, and you'll not find better checkering or more lively innovation in panel layout. ......509-382-2726
Diane is an amazing artist with gravers and steel, and it was my great pleasure to work with her on the 2007 ACGG project 'A Pair Of Sevens'. Her American scroll is strong, crisp and precise, her gold inlay is clean and accurate. She has been literally traveling the world to increase and share her knowledge and execution of all styles of engraving. Diane does gorgeous lettering, and insists she can teach me to do the same! I'm thinking she will insist on an HOURLY instruction rate when she sees my ability (or lack thereof). She teaches in her "spare" time, at several different locations during the summer and can be a bit difficult to keep up with! Your time spent looking her up will be well worth it.
Check in with the NRA once in awhile and see what they have going on. They will help keep you current on pending legislation and news that affects your hunting rights. If you are not already a member, read up on the organization and see if you don't agree that this is one of the most powerful fighters we have in our corner right now.
Look into your nearest Friends of NRA chapter. They will usually put on a fundraising banquet once a year, and they are a fun event. The monies raised at these events goes towards range developement and advancement of the shooting sports. This money is not used for the everyday workings of the NRA or the ILA. If you find you enjoy the evening you might look into volunteering for the committee for the next event!