Colonial American Longrifle Kit — Step 5: Installing the Box Lid and Catch Spring

Video for this step: https://kiblerslongrifles.com/v/colonial-5

This step applies only if you purchased the patchbox option. If your kit does not include a patchbox, skip to Step 6.

After fitting the buttplate, file the buttplate dovetail cut-out to match the wood inlet while the buttplate is installed. The brass is relatively soft and files easily; a medium to coarse three-cornered file works best. Take care not to remove too much material. Do not open up the wood inlet; only file the brass to match the wood.

At this point the wood box lid should fit the box inlet. Adjust the fit if necessary by removing wood from the box lid or inlet. A three-cornered file works well for this task. Once the box fits the inlet, file and sand the end flush with the buttplate.

As an option, a brass end plate can be attached to the back of the box lid. In this case the box must be trimmed in length, and the plate bent, pinned or screwed in place, then filed to match the box lid and buttplate.

Next, install the box catch spring by screwing it in place. File the notch in the spring to adjust the fit if necessary. The spring can be bent to adjust the pre-load or tension.