upgrade to portray trapper ca 1823 Upper Missouri drainage

[Dan'l Hickham]

Well, decided to go more forward in time than I have been. I want to start portraying a trapper Upper Missouri ca 1823. I know that my Mocassins (center seam) leggings (side seam) and breeches are appropriate (although knee breeches are a little dated) and my belt fire starting kit etc are fine

I am thinking I need to change some guns and weapons

What kind of axe/hawk would be appropriate to the time

Will probably get a trade gun in lieu of my iron mounted fowling piece. Probably a chief's grade or similar in like 54 caliber

I need a good rifle - my current one could be used but want a bigger bore gun - My Early Virginia 49 cal with sliding wood patch box
and swamped barrel - thinking of a 54 Lancaster or similar gun brass mounted

What other accourtrements should I be considering - tack and stuff for my horse will be expensive but just looking for some thoughts

[Rod]

What a great excuse for a new gun! The .54 Lancaster would be a good choice, the fur companies were actively buying from that area. As for an axe, I favor a half-axe---it weighs a bit more than those "trekking hatchets", but I find it'll drive stakes much easier, and is infinitely more useful than a tomahawk.

I'd also say that eastern style horse gear would work, although the Spanish saddle is most often thought of for that era/area, I'm sure there were English style saddles as well.

Rod

[Dan'l Hickham]

Gonna sell most my modern guns and all my other guns to get one rifle - and possibly a trade gun although I question whether in the day an average trapper will have two guns