Embellishment by engraving is an art form that has existed since man first learned to refine and work metals. Techniques have evolved and changed through the centuries, but it is still, traditionally, taking one piece of metal, which is harder and sharper than another, and using it by hand to skillfully and artistically remove material from the latter.
The other drop down sections provide information on having an item engraved and the process involved.
Keep in mind, hand engraving is not a simple, quick turn around process. It is not the same as going down to the local trophy shop and having a plaque engraved for an event with a routing engraver machine. There are also other techniques which achieve "engraved like" effects such as the use of stamping, roll stamping, laser cutting, and rotary grinding. These techniques are commonly used for automated production. None of those processes are used here. Every engraving job done is a one of a kind being designed, drawn, laid down, and executed by hand. With hand engraving you get control and variation in line depth, width, angle, nuance, and character.
Any pictures, images, sketches, images, or references you have that will help illustrate what you are thinking about can also be transmitted electronically in order to facilitate the conversation. At the end of this initial discussion I can probably give rough estimate on what the cost may be, what is doable within the budget, and what time frame may be possible. After this initial discussion we determine whether or not to move on to the next phase.
Once the artwork is created, based on the understanding and interpretation from the initial contact, a followup contact will be made. This is to present you, the client, the options considered, and the specifics related to each in terms of the time frames and costs involved.
1. Initial contact. The client often already has an idea for the type of engraving desired.
2. Before any engraving is done, the artwork is created. In this case the artwork is based on they type of factory engraving found on early colt lightning rifles, both large and small frame.
One or more options may be generated, based on the client's desires, the shape of the item, the type of metal, the amount of coverage, etcetera.
3. After the final artwork is selected and the scope of the project has been defined, the actual work on the piece begins. If necessary, the piece is disassembled down to the constituent parts that will be engraved.
4. If necessary, the surfaces of the pieces are polished or refined to their 'final surface' finish.
For firearms this typically means removing the existing bluing, unless of course it is stainless, and bringing the surface finish to the desired level of polish as well as removing, or where possible minimizing surface blemishes such as pits or scratches which are typical of older pieces. The piece need not have a perfect finish. The following three images are examples where the initial piece was pretty rough to begin with, but the bore was good and with judicious surface work, typically by hand, the surface can be resurrected, and after engraving all traces of the initial pitting are gone.
Before (sn obfuscated)
After
Engraved
Sometimes a ding or scratch can be worked into a design so that it effectively disappears. Surface prep is done at this point because after an engraving is done, anything other than a very light finish polish will remove material and potentially details in the engraving! There are exceptions when the client does not wish for the 'character' of the piece to change, in which case the engraving can be cut through the existing bluing or surface finish. This leaves the engraving cuts in the "white" meaning the raw metal.
5. Once the surfaces of the pieces are prepared to the level required for their final finish, the surfaces must be further prepared to receive the artwork that was previously rendered on paper.
There are a number of approaches, but typically is means covering the surface with a flat white finish. Either what is know as "china white" or a flat white enamel paint. This surface provides a contrasting background upon which the artwork can be transfered either directly by redrawing it with pencil or a number of other techniques using tracing or contact transfer. The image transfered onto the piece is used as the guide while actually cutting the metal.
6. With the artwork transfered to the piece, the piece is then placed into an engraving block or other fixture to hold it while the engraving takes place.
The process uses very sharp 'gravers' with varying geometries to cut the metal away from the piece, much like carving a piece of wood; just a tad bit more arduous and unforgiving.
7. Once the piece, or pieces have been engraved, the next step is refinishing and reassembly. If it was a simple engraving with no further surface finishing or reassembly needed, then the job is essentially done.
Typically for firearms the finished engraved items must be re-blued, unless the piece is a stainless steel. After it is refinished, it must be reassembled and function checked
8. At this point the piece is ready for delivery back to the client.
The answer of course is "It depends..." - Pricing is basically on a per/job basis. If you have read the section on the engraving process, then you are familiar with the steps of the process.
I have to take into consideration the size, shape, hardness, etc., of the item being engraved. Each of these impact how the item will have to be held to be engraved and whether or not I will have to make special fixtures to hold the item. The hardness and shape will impact how I will have to shape the graver and the cutting geometry of the tip.
I also have to consider whether or not the piece will have to be disassembled, polished, and mechanically reworked before the engraving begins. In the end, will it have to be refinished or reblued, and reassembled.
Then there is the design being engraved. What is the scroll style desired? Are there images, deep engraving, and inlays or precious metal work to consider?
After all that, I come up with a quote for the work, spelling out the scope of the work and the proposed artwork with enough detail that there is a common expectation for the amount quoted. If necessary, various options are quoted. Once accepted, I generally try to stay within the quote, however Add-ons or changes to the project scope can be made before the work starts, but corresponding costs will apply. After the work has started changes can be made only if it does not effect the work already done. Usually at least a 50% deposit is required on the start of the project, with balance due upon notice of completion.
Putting together a quote takes time; particularly if is there is art work to create. All serious requests are responded to but it may take time and lots of questions. If it is simple, and similar to examples you see on the web site, I may be able to come up with a quote verbally. But if it is something unique it may take a while. If you have questions just call.
Also check out the ATF web site (FAQ) for their current interpretation of the U.S code that involves firearms.
Understand what ATF terms as licensed persons versus unlicensed persons. A licensed person is one that holds a current Federal Firearms License (FFL) issued by the ATF. These licensed persons are also generally referred to in various documents as licensees, license holders, dealers, and licensed dealers.
Idaho Firearms Engraving, holds a current FFL, and can be verified at the ATF site Listing of FFLs. We do not sell firearms nor keep any stock. It is just engraving and any gunsmithing that goes along with it.
Firearms can generally be shipped by anyone over 21 in the U.S.A. to a Federally Licensed Firearms dealer by common carrier; however, ONLY Dealers can ship modern pistols by the U.S. post office to another dealer. The "firearm" is technically the part that has the firearm serial number. The part with the serial number is the "firearm" and must be treated as such even if it is disassembled. Each carrier has their own restrictions or policies, and can be found on their corresponding web sites. I will summarize them below, but be aware, they can change at any time, so go directly to the source to find the most current interpretation.
UPS web site on shipping firearms.
FedEx web site on shipping firearms.
USPS web site on Firearm Mailability.
If the part you are having engraved is not the part with the serial number then it can be shipped by any of the carriers without special consideration as a firearm. All of the rest of the parts without the serial number are just parts. Often times if it is just the slide, or the barrel or grip you are having engraved, then this is the way to go. But again you must check with the carrier and their policies. They can change at anytime.
If you are local and a resident of Idaho then of course the easiest thing to do is to drop the item off. No shipping involved. Technically if a firearm is dropped off, and picked up the same day, by the same person then it is not required to be logged in. For engraving however, that is virtually never the case. If a firearm is held overnight then it must be logged into the firearms registry. When it is picked up it must be picked up by the same person and it is logged out. If a different person picks it up, then they will have to fill out a form 4473, with the requisite background check, just as if they were buying a firearm before it can be released and logged out. This applies to both long guns and pistols.
You do not have to have a license to ship firearms, but the person or business to whom you are shipping the firearm must have an FFL license (Federal Firearms License). There are however restrictions or policies based on the carrier used and type of firearm being shipped.
In all cases, the labeling and outer box markings on all firearms shipments should not identify the contents as containing a firearm or be identifiable as containing a firearm. Labeling, including the shipper's and consignee's names on the shipping labels, should be be non-descriptive for the same reasons. If it is disassembled, and the "firearm" components is not included then it can be shipped as parts. Make sure there is no ammunition included. Package your firearm with adequate padding so there is no movement, and there is plenty of padding between the item and the walls of the container. Shipping in a hard plastic gun case is good, however that should be placed within cardboard box for shipping.
Make sure you record any serial numbers and insure the items for their full amount.
Once completed, return shipping fees, including insurance, will be determined and quoted for you, based on the carrier and shipping you desire. This will then be included in the final billing. The firearm is returned directly to you as firearms shipped to FFLs for repair or any other lawful purpose may be returned to the person from whom received without transferring the firearm through an FFL in the recipient's State of residence (18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(2)(A)). It will also be sent requiring a direct signature.
The galleries below contain images of items that have previously been engraved. They are organized loosely by manufacture and model. Each image can be selected by clicking on the thumbnail, and then the image can be zoomed in and out by either mouse wheel, or by finger pinch if using a touch screen.
One of the early AutoMag pistols. Very tough steel!
Engraving on an early Colt small frame Lightning rifle, done in a grape leave style commonly found on the early Lightnings.
This is a 3rd generation Colt Single Action Army done for the 2021 Tyler Gun Works Engraving Competition. The piece is done with a leaf style scroll, spider webs done in silver, and multiple spiders inlaid with gold and silver. The piece took second place for the national competition. Photos were done by Alex Landeen at LandeenPhotography.com.
This is a Colt 1911 Series 80 engraved for a client that really admires our 45th president. The lettering and borders are 24kt flush gold inlay. The rampant colts on the slide are 24kt raised gold inlays, and the trigger, beaver tail, safety, slide release are all 24kt gold plate. The grips are off the shelf "Eagle" brand faux mother of pearl grips with gold "colored" colts.
A Harrington & Richardson model 929 revolver, three tone, with a Wolf theme.
This gallery contains images of a variety of projects that do not warrent a gallery folder all their own.
Standard Arms only made the Model G Autoloader for a short period of time starting in 1909.
Uberti makes replicas of several classic firearms which are organized below by the original manufacturer and model.
This is Uberti Replica of the Remington 1875 revolver, engraved and then gold plated on the cylinder, trigger guard, and hammer.
These folders contain images of Uberti replicas of the Winchester 1866 rifles engraved for different events or clients.
This is a Uberti replica of the Winchester 1866 Carbine, engraved as an award for the Ed Miller 2018 Xtreme Bull Riding Champion.
This is a Uberti replica of the Winchester 1866 Carbine, engraved as an award for the Ed Miller 2019 Xtreme Bull Riding Champion.
This is a modern Uberti copy of the famous Winchester 1866 short rifle, with a 20" hexagonal barrel, .45LC, engraved as an award for the 2021 Xtreme Bull Riding Champion. Typically before a ride, the rider takes a knee in prayer for a safe ride, in an extreme sport.
This is a modern Uberti copy of the famous Winchester 1866 short rifle, with a 20" hexagonal barrel, .45LC, engraved as an award for the 2023 Xtreme Bull Riding Champion. Unfortunately, the competition for 2022 was not held.
A Walther PP, done with a shallow relief Oak Leaf style engraving.
A very early Ruger Standard Model, resurfaced and engraved.
A Mark II done in a relieved Oak Leaf style.
This is a themed piece, "Freedoms Hammer". It has the name on the grip, "In God We Trust" on the backstrap, and the text of the 2nd Amendment surrounding the cylinder.
This piece was done with extensive gold inlay outlines, niter blue cylinder, hammer, and screws.
This piece was done for a John Taffin benefit. It was his favorite model of revolver and caliber with his "JAT" moniker inlaid in gold, and signature sign off "Good Shootin' & God Bless" down the backstrap.
Something a little different. A stainless Ruger Bearcat, engraved with bear, cougar, and human tracks, surrounded with a leaf type scroll and no background contrast.The original factory roll engraving on the cylinder is enhanced to give it relief, texture and dimension.
The model 1903 was Winchester's first semi-auto rimfire rifle. Two rifles were done, one in the style of early Winchester engravings that had panels of rabbits on one side and squirrels on the other, and the other in a shallow relief engraving of a coyote, and ground squirrels, each side with a different perspective.
This is a Winchester model 21 double barrel, flat side shotgun, engraved in the style of the #5 pattern shown in the Model 21 Catalogs of the 1950's.
This is a themed piece, "Libertas", latin for liberty. It has the name on the lower tang. It features in shallow relieve an eagle head at the center of a scroll panel on each side, an engraving of Liberty on the right side modeled after the 1916 sculpture of liberty on the quarter dollar done by Hermon MacNeil. On the left side is the text of the 2nd Amendment.
This is one of two new model 1873 rifles with a Texas theme and the clients family brand. The Longhorn, Eagle head, and Texas star are done as a raised silver inlay, while the brand is a flush silver inlay.
If you are not sure of the type or style of engraving you would like or are just curious, the following references are to online resources, and references to several books that been published over the years with illustrations of engraved arms over the last few centuries. Some styles of engraving are quite simple, while others are elaborate and quite detailed. Some styles reflect a certain time period such as the late American 1800’s while others reflect a region such as the German oak leaf style. Some styles are unique to individuals.
The Firearmes Engravers Guild of America
GRS Tools (Engraving Tools, Techniques, and Training)
Adler, D. (2009) Guns of the American West New York, NY: Chartwell Books.
Dougan, J.C. (1991) Compliments of Col. Ruger; A Study of Factory Engraved Single Action Revolvers El Paso, TX: Taylor Publishing.
Meek, J.B.(1973) The Art of Engraving: A Book of Instruction Montezuma, IA: F. Brownell & Son, Publishers.
Smith, R. (2005) Advanced Drawing of Scrolls Ft. Worth, TX: Glendo Corp.
Sundseth, D (2007) GIANFRANCO PEDERSOLI: Master Engraver Minneapolis, MN: Blue Book Publications.
Tate, D. (2000) BRITISH GUN ENGRAVING Long Beach, CA: Safari Press.
Turpin, T. (1997) Modern Custom Guns: Walnut, Steel, and Uncommon Artistry Iola, WI: Krause Publications.
Turpin, T. (1999) Custom Firearms Engraving Iola, WI: Krause Publications.
Wilson, R.L. (1975) WINCHESTER Engraving Palm Springs, CA: Beinfeld Publishing.
Wilson, R.L. (1985) COLT: An American Legend New York, NY: Artabras.
Wilson, R.L. (1991) WINCHESTER: An American Legend New York, NY: Random House.
Wilson, R.L. (1992) THE PEACEMAKERS: Arms and Adventure in the American West Edison, NJ: Chartwell Books.
Wilson, R.L. (1995) STEEL CANVAS: The Art of American Arms New York, NY: Random House.
Wilson, R.L. (2000) THE WORLD OF BERETTA: An International Legend New York, NY: Random House.
Wilson, R.L. (2001) The Colt Engraving Book: Volume 1 New York, NY: Bannerman’s.
Wilson, R.L. (2001) The Colt Engraving Book: Volume 2 New York, NY: Bannerman’s.
Wilson, R.L. (2001) L. D. NIMSCHKE: Firearms Engraver Livonia, NY: R&R Books.