Lyman lefty 54 Deerstalker flintlock questions?

[Canuck Bob]

I imported a Deerstalker a few years ago. Due to some problems I never got busy with the rifle. I've decided to start back up and use this summer to decide if I really like flintlock muzzleloaders.

I have some Goex and the small tools to get started. I am asking if there is a Canadian company that caters to muzzleloaders, specially the more traditional lines? What about friendly American suppliers or lock tuners?

Where can a guy get a lefthand Lyman lock tuned, hopefully in Canada. I'm watching the flint thread closely. Has anyone ever upgraded their Lyman flint lock or replaced it. Sadly, the L&R RPL is right hand only.

Any DIY links sure are welcome.

 

[yonderin]

Welcome to the world of rock locks. It’s a lot of fun and can be a bit challenging. As far as shooting supplies, I’ve yet to find a truly great online supplier in Canada. Hillfolks in Saskatchewan seems to be well regarded but last time I checked they weren’t online. I have purchased from Track Of The Wolf in Elk River, Minnesota and The Gun Works in Springfield, Oregon and can recommend both. Rustywood in Mission seems to be a good supplier of powder, never shopped with them.

I have a hard time getting extended life out of flints, I’ve heard of up to 200 shots/flint but that’s unusual. If you want to go extreme, learn how to knap and identify suitable rocks, more than just flint can work.

Check out www.muzzleloadingforum.com. Be aware, these boys are hardcore traditional, don’t even bring up inlines or scopes. Best forum I’ve come across. Also, check for local clubs and provincial associations. You may get lucky and find some that are exclusively muzzleloading, hopefully there's some knowledgeable members in general clubs.

 

[Ol' Flinter]

You might also check out Loyalist Arms in Nova Scotia for support, flints etc. They have a website. Hillfolk has a phone # but not a website and they specialize in traditional stuff. Nobody I know can get 200 strikes out of one flint but with a good quality lock 20 shots between knaps is attainable and 60 - 80 or so in total. Look at the National Muzzle loading Rifle Assoc. website for a book by Eric Bye on the care and feeding of flinters - it has all you need to know for about $40. There are quite a few gun builders in Canada more than capable of tuning a flintlock but they do not advertise: only by word of mouth. The book entitled "Gunsmith of Grenville County by Peter Alexander devotes 8 pages to tuning a flint lock.