Ken uses his gun as a "spare for bear" when guiding muzzle-loading clients in the mountains. That extra shot, particularly from a .58 calibre on up, can quickly put a wounded animal out of its misery or change its mind about what's next on its menu.

These guns were originally the result of Indians cutting back on the Northwest or Trade gun. The short size allowed the gun to be tied to the belt (although it's heavy carried that way) or dangled under a blanket from a thong tied through the butt stock and slung over the shoulder. The small size made this gun a good weapon to use on horse back, particularly since it was easy to load.

A dark stain and brass tacks will give this stock an authentic look. The "blanket gun" was carried by the mountain man and Indian as an "extra shot" that helped a man get by a tight spot.

The specifications for this gun are similar to the Trade gun. Our stock has a 14 1/2" barrel channel inletted to 3/4" round only. Total stock is about two feet in length and the ramrod channel inlet has been drilled to 3/8".