Frequently asked questions
Do you use any parts from L & R Lock company?
No. All masters, molds, wax injection, jigs and fixtures, etc. are created “In House”. The only exception is the outsourcing of gun screws and the foundry pouring/casting. Assembly is also in house.
Why mount the mainspring near the bottom of the plate?
Traditional lockmakers, especially “London Quality” but also many domestic makers used this spring location to avoid cutting into the ramrod channel, trigger cavity, breaking into the barrel channel or the spring’s upper leaf contacting the barrel. Currently in our shop is a pair of Durs Egg self-priming dueling pistols. The barrels of which are 15/16” with small locks (see photo). The lock mortise shows precise workmanship with NO intrusion into the barrel or ramrod channel(s). These pistols are circa 1808-1815. We contemporary muzzleloading technical types are still learning from the old masters.
Does a fly mounted in the center of the tumbler increase lock speed?
No. Fly location has no affect as to lock speed. Design of the fly can adversely affect function of a lock if it is too long, too soft or at a less than desirable angle. These factors can impede the hammer/cock rotation, contribute to sear nose wear and – in a minor way – lock jump.
Stirrup – pinned, screw, double-ended: is one better than the others?
No. All these methods are traditional and perform their intended tasks equally well. The stirrup is a friction reducing device designed to lift the mainspring in a vertical line while reducing mainspring stacking.
Pan cover protrusion nested into the pan. Is this feature superior to locks featuring flat surface contact?
No. This feature can and does enhance one’s ability to waterproof their locks as it creates a corner or ledge to hold sealant such as tallow, bee’s wax, etc. However, the manufacturer should condition the mating surface of the pan cover for a “no gap” fit during the assembly process. Said protrusion also helps align/position the frizzen uniformly – lock to lock and to control the frizzen timing location on the frizzen spring.