shotgun #3: second part of the carving

Well here I am now. The carving continues. I believe now that I am done with this first side. I wasn’t sure what to do to be honest with you, so I just sat there at the couch with it on my lap. I cut a piece of paper and taped it to the gun, cutting around the Drake. I just started doodling on it while watching TV and this is what I came up with. I decided that I wanted his Initials on the piece, but also knew I wanted them framed in leaves. These leaves are out of my head, so there may or may not be any realizm to them. I did do a search for stock carving and came across Joe Cummings. Man that guy produces some beatiful rifles. Anyhow, I got the idea for the checkers on the grip, although he uses much more sophisticated designs. I liked the idea and so I had to do something similar as well. I did request a pattern from him. He sent me 2. A fish scale pattern and a weave. I started the carving before I recieved them.

Anyhow, this has been fun so far. A waist of time, but fun. LOL. I will start the other side soon. I do plan on staining the material a walnut color, and will glaze it as well. The barrel will be ebonized. I think I still need to carve in the part of the gun where the shell ejects too, as well as put a small site on the barrel. I think I need to stop searching for shot guns and rifles so the detail work can stop. LOL. Next you know I’ll be adding a safety, trigger, and what ever else I notice. LOL.

Here it is so far. As always I welcome constructive criticism, positive or negative. Let me know honest opinions about the design of the carving. It really isn’t that well thought out, but I think it’s coming along okay.

-- ~ Inspiring those who inspire me ~