Dixon's Gunmakers' Fair

Today I thought I'd pass along some information about a great event for anyone interested in learning about building black powder arms, which is Dixon's Gunmakers' Fair. Dixon's Muzzleloading Shop in Kempton, Pennsylvania, hosts this workshop every year near the end of July. This year's seminar will be July 24-26, from 9:00 to 5:00 daily. Each day will feature seminars on gun building skills and techniques by some of the top contemporary gunmakers. It's a great chance to learn from the best in the business.

Many black powder businesses will have tables in the sales area, selling everything from gun parts and accessories to books and videos/DVDs on gun building.

In addition to all of that is the competition for prizes. Entries are accepted in three classes: apprentice, journeyman, or master. Within each class are several categories, such as pistol, engraving and carving. Best of show prizes are awarded in the journeyman and the master class competition.

All in all it's a terrific weekend for the aspiring or experienced gun builder. If you can't make it this year, be sure to put it on next year's calendar.

-Linda Scurlock, Managing Editor