This has been an on-going
project for some time here at Barnes Pneumatic. Hope you enjoy
seeing this completed Buttflask PCP rifle ...
The flask itself was
the result of years of development. Things are alittle different
than they were in the 18th century. I went to every length to
make certain that a safe, modern flask (with redundant fail-safe
devices) was within my shop's capacity to produce.
This one is quick fill
.... flask on or off the rifle.
Within the flask is
an overfill regulator. Set to "weep" if filled above
designated working pressure and reset again at working pressure.
Along with the firing valve assembly, this means the flask carries
three complete valves ... thus ... the Barnes "Tri-Valve"
flask label.
You'll note the flask
is covered in hand stitched, wet molded, dyed/polished/waxed heavy
weight leather. Something I learned from making custom knife sheaths
many years ago.
Note the way the leather
was molded over the dome.
Yes - the rifle takes
down - while under pressure. It machine threads together and self
indexes at the correct lock-up point.
The rear sight. Solid
brass machined parts. Adjustable for elevation and windage. Several
dovetails are also cut into the barrel for various configurations
of scopes (when alone in the woods - ha ha) or alternative sights.
Also, note the machined and fitted solid brass "wedding ring"
band I use to mate forestock to barrel.
Another angle on the
adjustable Barnes rear sight unit.
_
The front sight features
Dual Ghost Rings for yardage options.
Also - a horizon plane
is integral with the barrel cap and sight.
Jeweled filework details
...
Some nice Tiger Striped
Walnut on the forestock
Forestock blended and
molded to the steel ...
The fill cap also has
a machined button to accept a shoulder strap if desired.
The extension contains
the fill valve and provides a comfortable grip as well.
The trigger housing/guard
started out as billet stock. Yes, I know ... the same old thing
you see everywhere ... sorry ... ;?)
The shop drawings tell
me I designed this rifle in August of 1998. I first took the rifle
to the range 18 months ago and printed some targets. We'll get
it back out there asap, now that it's complete.
Oh yes ... it can be
configured for five different power bands. Can shoot a variety
of Barnes 32 caliber slugs from about 66 - 135 grains. More on
that later.
Hope you've enjoyed
a look at something alittle out of the ordinary. It keeps life
interesting. I guess you can tell this is one of the "Signature
Pcs." that I make from time to time.
_ 
