Art of the Gun, Tinidad Colorado, 2017
Glen Morovits talks double rifles with an attendee of Art of the Gun.
Art of the Gun @ Mitchell Museum in Trinidad Colorado was held the weekend of June 9-10, 2017. This event was held in conjunction with the 70/40 Anniversary of the TSJC Gunsmithing Program. 70 years ago P.O. Ackley helped start the first gunsmithing program at any college in the U.S. 40 years ago the School joined with the NRA to offer Short Term gunsmithing courses in the summer months. This event celebrated both anniversaries.
The setting is the Mitchell Museum in a very cool old store front in Trinidad CO that was a Department Store from about 1900 to 1985. Ornate tin ceilings and creaky wood floors are the perfect back drop of western art. You just feel like your standing in a piece of history.
About 15 displays of very special firearms from various gun makers and organisations were set-up for the public to enjoy and learn about. The American Custom Gunmakers Guild was in attendance and shared information about their group as well.
Dewain Zeglin
One of the most impressive displays was put on by the NRA Museums with some one of a kind engraved custom guns that display the art of engraving at a level seldom seen. Jim Supica, Director of NRA Museums talked with anyone who wanted to learn about the engraved guns or more importantly the Museums that he is responsible for operating. The NRA Museums are open to the public free of charge everyday of the year except for Christmas. Love guns? Then you should check out these amazing collections.
A few more highlights: Doug Turnbull of Turnbull Resorations was in attendance sharing with attendees about the art of Color Case Hardening offered by his company. Mike Roby (Raven) showed a beautiful collection of his custom black powder rifles that he builds. Dewain Zeglin represented his company Z-Hat Customs. Fred Zeglin was in attendance to sign his book on P.O. Ackley, the founder of the Gunsmithing Program at Trinidad State Junior College. Paul Moore displayed his 22 LR Gatling Gun, a masterpiece of engineering and gunsmithing combined.
Signing Books for visitor at Art of the Gun.
If you love guns and especially the best of the best in terms of beauty and quality you should check this show out next summer. Lots of talented people to meet and great guns check out.
