My name is Larry Walker,... when Steve Hill and I started talking several years ago about building J.J.HENRY  trade rifles there was nobody recreating these guns but for one here and there. Being involved with the American Mountain Men, and our continuing quest for historically correct equipment, has brought us here. The Henry rifles can be documented as being developed, built, and shipped for use in the fur trade by the American Fur Company. My intention is to build  faithful yet practical reproductions starting with the “New English” or “Scroll Guard”pattern. Next will be the “Lancaster Pattern” and finally the “English Pattern”. The research into these historically significant firearms is an ongoing process so any photos or material that people are willing to share will be gladly accepted.      

        We’re all members of the “Barren River Party” of the American Mountain Men  and share a profound love and respect for the wilderness. We also share a keen interest in different aspects of the life and technology of the first half of the 19th century. Ken has become quite good at trapping and does some wonderful brain tanning. Steve is our Mentor, he has been hunting, trapping, and building muzzleloaders for most of his life.  Just being around him is always entertaining and educational. He has taught me a great deal of what I know about the “Fur Trade”, and took me on as an apprentice gun builder some six years back. Cole, Steve’s son, has grown up learning the skills of the mountains and is a pleasure to be have in camp. 

Left to right: Ken Sheldon, Larry Walker, Cole Hill, and Steve Hill