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#607517 12/06/21 04:23 PM
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Hello all,

A newcomer to the forum and double guns. I have an early Francotte Featherweight Grade I. Bob Beach was kind enough to look over photos and give me some history on the gun. But it is in need of some smithing. Barrels need put back on face, cocking dogs most likely need some material added, etc.

I've already reached out to Griffin & Howe, Vintage firearm Inc Gunsmiths, Whittman, and a few others I've found recommended by members of the forum. Most are not accepting new work. I then stumbled upon Bill Graham with "nice old doubles gunworks" through the Society of American Side by Sides group on Facebook. The work seems very high quality, and his quote came in at a significantly lower price point.

Does anyone have experience working with Bill? Or have seen his work? I'm not in a rush, and want it done right. And the quotes from the other smiths were not unreasonable per say, but with Bill I could potentially have a few cosmetic things addressed for the amount of money I want to put into the gun, not just getting the action taken care of.

Any other smiths that folks would recommend?

And if this thread should be in another category let me know/move it. I'm new to the forum and did my best to search before creating a duplicate thread. Thanks for the thoughts! Take care.
-Josiah

Last edited by Jethroat; 12/06/21 08:21 PM.
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I know one gunsmurf I wouldn't recomend....

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Philip's Gunsmithing in east TX is the best I ever used. He fixed a 21 that makes you gun sound simple, costs are reasonable, no cheap.
Call 210-313 - 5988

bill

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Marks born again bird guns.there is a guy in your neighbor hood but I'm not sure if he's taking anymore work.ask mark for recommendation.Steve Bertram in colorado

Last edited by mc; 12/06/21 10:29 PM.
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Does your gun have two cocking levers on the front of the action?

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Bill is very good. He is just starting out which is why he is taking on more work .

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Not sure if he's taking on work but our own SKB (Steve Bertram) restored my Francotte to all it's glory, including replacing the hinge pin, rebuilding the inletting and refinishing, and a downright gorgeous covered pad.

[Linked Image from i.ibb.co]


My problem lies in reconciling my gross habits with my net income.
- Errol Flynn
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Originally Posted by mc
Does your gun have two cocking levers on the front of the action?

Nope, it has one bearing surface on the forend that engages a centered cocking dog at the front of the receiver. That centered dog depresses both cocking levers simultaneously.

Photos of the gun can be seen here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/T1uh6s8ALwL49eJz9

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Originally Posted by mc
Marks born again bird guns.there is a guy in your neighbor hood but I'm not sure if he's taking anymore work.ask mark for recommendation.Steve Bertram in colorado

I'm familiar with Mark. I almost bought the T. Bland and sons underlever he's selling right now. I know he isn't taking on work, but I should give him a call to see who he recommends.

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I have the same model francotte it's built on the 1884 westly Richards patent make sure who ever you chose to work on it understands this model mine is a really great well made gun

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