Custom Rifles in Black & White

Custom Rifles in Black & White is a collection of studio photography compiled between 1989 and 1999. Through these photographs, I have attempted to illustrate the complexity and nuances of the individual details that combine to make a complete custom rifle. Most of the rifles are presented with a full-length view so the reader can see the whole and appreciate the overall lines as well. Where possible, I have included views showing the transition areas: metal to wood fit, how the comb nose blends into the grip, the melding of the action area through the grip into the buttstock and cheekpiece, and how the checkering enhances these transitions.

The rifles are presented in three sections divided by action type: Bolt Action, Single-shot and Lever Action. The order of presentation was chosen arbitrarily, with the smallest calibers first in the bolt action section and by grouping like actions in the others. The titles of the stories reflect the principal craftsmen involved with the project. Some list the metalsmith, stockmaker and engraver, and some just list the gunmaker. When possible, I have listed other participants and their contribution to the rifle.

Each of the stories was inspired by what the rifle represented to me. I’ve tried to include enough hard facts to satisfy developing craftsmen and the technically inclined. I’ve also attempted to educate and to explain the nuances of the design and construction of the guns. Each section has stories that relate concepts not normally associated with the technical aspects of custom riflemaking.

Steven Dodd Hughes entered the gunsmithing program at Trinidad College, Trinidad, CO in 1975. Since that time, he has dedicated his career to creating custom rifles and shotguns. He was first employed building semi-custom muzzleloaders. In 1980, Hughes started his own shop and continued making muzzleloading rifles and fowling pieces. Around 1989, he began stocking double shotguns and traditional single-shot rifles. Hughes currently completes about four and a half custom single-shot, lever action rifles or double action shotguns per year. Hughes also writes for several magazines.