Gun case project
 

I found a nice antique storage box a while ago. The top was engraved with 2 dates, a 25th anniversary plaque of some sort.

The box probably contained cutlery originally. It came with the original key.

I decided to turn it into a French fitted case for a suitable gun. The one that came clostest to the case was a Colt Lightning revolver, so I started work.

The original interior of the case was removed and I handcarved the revolver shape from a piece of plywood. The plywood would act as the insert inside the box. The top of the plywood insert was lined with a thin piece of foam. Both were then covered in a vintage piece of burgundy velvet.

The lid insert was easier. Just a correctly sized piece of cardboard covered in the same velvet material.

I think the result is not bad. Always preferred the French fitted style before the US/English fitted cases.

It displays the little old Colt pretty well.

Very nicely done...........

Me too. I had a similar case - also probably a silverware/cutlery case originally - that had been nicely redone as an English style. It just didn't do it for me, so I sold it to another forum member here. Now you have me thinking of making my own French style case.

Great job on yours!

I found a little box that has had a bit more of a 'been there' look, so I decided to see if I could stick to the scruffy look and feel. I selected a rougher, more worn part of the piece of upholstery I used for the other box and fitted this using the same principles, but a bit simpler. No foam lining, but the velvet directly over the wooden insert. The lid was done in a similar way as the first box. Coupled with a well used Mauser WTP and a not too perfect manual, the set displays very well.

The general idea was to give it a sort of 'aged' look and I think it turned out well.
Now I need to figure out if I can get the lock working again. Need to construct an upper plate, a lock plate from brass, as well as find or make a functional little key.

Very nice Vlim - I have been wanting to buy an antique shotgun case (breakdown) and make it into a carbine case. :)

I'd say: go for it!