The Model 71 Winchester
A history and notes on the Model 71 Winchester, a classic American lever action rifle.
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Articles by Paul Mazan
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The Smith Carbine
An overview of a unique breechloading rifle from the Civil War era.
First Gunsmith Projects
Tips on ideal first projects for the new, first-time home gunsmith.
Mosin-Nagant Modiications
The story of a very un Mosin-Nagant with notes on the current state of sporterizing classic military rifles.
Restoring Grandpa’s Gun
A how-to on a “kitchen table” restoration of an old rimfire rifle.
Winchester 94 Restoration
The Winchester 94 is a classic, influential lever action rifle. How much restoration on these rifles is enough to bring them to good shooting condition while maintaining the gun’s character?
Remington 788 Stock Upgrade
An overview of refinishing a birch stock, here’s how I upgraded a Remington 788.
Winchester Model 1885
A how-to on renovating a Model 1885 Winchester rifle and adding a Schnabel tip to a custom restoration.
1903A3 Conversion to A4 Sniper Variant
Sniping and sniper rifles are subjects that have become very popular among riflemen of late. True sniper rifles are rare and very expensive. Here is how I built a replica of a 1903A4 from parts.
Identifying Hindu Kush Guns
Named for the mountain range west of the Himalayas, here’s how I identify guns from the Hindu Kush for restoration.
Gun Part Sources
Some useful sources for gun parts and gunsmithing tools.
Mossberg 42M Restoration
The restoration of an iconic World War Two training rifle took some skill and a little research. Here’s how I refurbished a Mossberg 42M.
Shop Safety
A vital subject, here’s how to stay safe when working in your shop.
I’ll Take a Slug of That
Working with old and interesting guns likely requires precise custom internal measurements. Here’s why and how to slug your barrel.
Collecting Firearms
Many gun owners accumulate—not collect—guns. Here’s a guide to get started with an investment-grade firearm collection, for yourself or your customer.
Beware Of That Old Muzzleloader!
Muzzleloaders left for long storage or as wall hangers may pose risks. Here’s how to restore them while remaining safe.
Kit Muzzleloaders
How to build flintlock or percussion lock muzzleloaders from a kit.
Online Gun Auctions
A few words of advice for anyone chasing that “deal of a lifetime”.
Hopkins & Allen Revitalized
A design from the Civil War era, here’s how I restored a Hopkins & Allen 922 falling block .22 rifle.
Cartridge Conversions
Doddering old fools may not be tactical, but there are other reasons for gun projects. Here are mine for cartridge conversions.
Hi-Point Carbine
Taking on the Hi-Point Carbine, here’s my take on setting up this inexpensive 9mm long gun.
Parker Brothers Shotguns, Part Two
Once you find and obtain a classic Parker, it will likely be in need of some repairs, especially if you paid a less-than-premium price for it.
Parker Brothers Shotguns, Part One
Among the most classic of American-made shotguns, Parker Brothers guns are premium shotguns that can be had for a reasonable price… if you know what to look for.
Installing A Curved Steel Buttplate
Classic spurred steel buttplates look nice and provide a slip-free anchor between your shoulder and the gun.