Bowcaster Build - I think I’m ready?

[Cameron]

Welp. I think I’m ready to start this Bowcaster. I still need a smaller sized coil (the one pictured I’d slightly too large). I need to figure out if the scope rings for the side scopes are short or long. If anyone knows please chime in. I also have to make a franken sling out of 2 inaccurate slings. The 4/20 scopes will be placeholders until I can find a set of 7s that won’t cost more than the rest of the build.

This will be fun.

 

[papermaker]

Nice kit! What are you using for the scope saddle mount?

 

[Cameron]

Nice kit! What are you using for the scope saddle mount?

Thanks. I wish it were a kit lol unless you meant kit in the British sense. There are 7-8 sources for what you see. The saddle was made by a member here as well as a few other bits.

 

[Jawajawa827]

Nice layout!!!

The model 7s rings are the short feet

 

[russellsch]

This is going to be fun. Thank you for documenting this build!

 

[Cameron]

Lots of seam sanding today.

 

[Cameron]

Seams gone and pinholes filled. First coat of the magic and sacred sandable black primer is down.

 

[Cameron]

Strap update:
I bought a gas mask bag years ago on the bay that said “no strap” but it was cheap so I grabbed it for another project. I took it out to look at the string on it and inside low and behold was indeed a strap. It has the correct hardware and mid point flap but alas it is not the exact fabric. It is still closer than the other 3 I have.

 

[Cameron]

A quick sand of the prod to get rid of some manufacturing marks.

 

[BorginanAlcove]

nice! looks like its gonna be some fun (lots of work) cant wait to see the finish product!

 

[Cameron]

Quick update.
1. Several coats of Satin Clear applied over the black primer to match the screen used finish.
2. Holes drilled for cables and trigger post.
3. Working out the trigger mount for a cheap trigger from eBay. I will use sponge inside the trigger box to add trigger resistance.
4. Experimenting with metal ball halves instead of rubber balls. Not sure if I want to go that route. These are slightly to small so I ordered some larger ones.

 

[russellsch]

The way the frame is finished is gorgeous!!

 

[Cameron]

The way the frame is finished is gorgeous!!

Thank you sir.

 

[TatooineMachine]

Looking great buddy

 

[Cameron]

Looking great buddy

Thanks C dog. Did you start yours yet?

 

[Cameron]

Found a few minutes to address the trigger.
1. I drilled out the holes on side greeblies to accept a screw.
2. I drilled out side holes to accept 3/16 brass tube.
3. I cut brass tube to size.
4. Test assembly of trigger arrangement. A few dabs of PC7 will hold it all in place when I’m ready.
Next to find a sponge to cut and place in to add trigger resistance. Pew pew!

 

[OdiWan72]

Very nice ...love the WIP pics.

If you want to go the extra mile for a more authentic finish, buff the frame and get rid off the texture. The original nylon coating is satin/ gloss and relatively smooth.

 

[Cameron]

Very nice ...love the WIP pics.

If you want to go the extra mile for a more authentic finish, buff the frame and get rid off the texture. The original nylon coating is satin/ gloss and relatively smooth.

Thanks Odi. Yes, there are areas that show some slight texture due to spray inconsistencies of the satin finish I used. How does one buff a clear coat? I’ve never done that.

 

[OdiWan72]

Thanks Odi. Yes, there are areas that show some slight texture due to spray inconsistencies of the satin finish I used. How does one buff a clear coat? I’ve never done that.

Same as with every other paint coat...a cutting/ polishing compound

I am sure somebody will chime in, that could give you some US brands to work with

 

[Cameron]

Got ya. Ive polished metal but never a clear coat. Maybe I will give it a try on a sample paint job on something.I might also add the is dust from drilling on the frame in a few of my pics.