[Jeff Higgins]

There is, indeed, a ready market for "professional builders" who are finishing rifles like these for folks who do not possess the skills necessary to do so for themselves. They command a fair amount of money as well. I'm afraid, however, that I lack the fortitude or nerves to build one of these for someone else. Maybe if I had a few more under my belt the jitters would subside...

That's the excuse I'm using to justify shopping for my "next one", anyway. I'm pretty sure I know what I want. I've mentioned it earlier, the Jim Kibler "Southern Mountain Rifle" in .36 caliber, a "squirrel rifle". That does represent a hole in my modest battery, with my muzzle loaders all being big game calibers - .50, .54, and .72. I "need" a small bore.

Before I commit, however, I'm going to bask in the glow of having successfully completed this one. Once that wears off, I'll see where I stand, and if I'm eager to do all of this again. If I am, I'll order up the kit. If I'm successful with that one, and build some confidence, who knows - maybe I'll take on one for a friend or something. Several have already asked...

As far as the grip area, that was just luck of the draw on the placement of the figure in the wood. I do agree, I rather like the affect, making it appear somewhat used. I would imagine that with time it will continue to get darker in that area, enhancing the affect.