Contemporary Makers Portraits: Jim Chambers

Jim Chambers started shooting at the age of 13 at the Cataloochee Ranch and made his first rifle at 15. Jim started making guns under the tutelage of Earl Lanning. Jim helped Earl Lanning restore guns at night. During 1970-71 Jim was Master of the Gun Shop at Old Salem when John Bevins was the Curator of the Crafts. There is a step by step guide to how he makes a gun in “Foxfire 5”.

Jim started making his own locks around 1982. Jim started making the rifle kits with Don Getz and Bob Lepley. The part of an order were shipped separately which was a problem. The group eventually dissolved. Jim continues the rifle making kits as Jim Chambers Flintlocks.

Around 1960 C.E. "Bud" Siler made the first Siler lock by copying a pristine Germanic style lock produced around 1770. On December 16, 1993 after thirty plus years, Mr. and Mrs. Siler retired, and Siler Lock Company was sold to Jim Chambers Flintlocks.

Jim Chambers Flintlocks is still coming out with new products. There is now a pistol kit and a new lock will be coming out in the fall. They are also now holding Rifle Kit Building Classes. 

Jim quite taking orders about 10 years ago, but is still building guns. He does from time to time have some of his earlier guns for sale.

 This is the rifle that Jim is holding in the photo with more photos available here.

Jim was photographed at the 2012 Tennessee Kentucky Rifle Show by Jan Riser. The rifle was photographed at the 2011 CLA Show by Jan Riser.