I.D. of Custom Gunsmith

RCrosby

I'm trying to identify the 'smith who build a custom Sako that I've had for a few years now. It's an L579, .308 Win. Stock looks to be AAA French Walnut. Shilen barrel, Canjar trigger, VERY nicely done metal work in recontouring the trigger guard, adding a checkered bolt handle and finishing it all with a beautiful bead blast blue.
Above the stock line the barrel is simply marked ".308 Win."
On the bottom of the barrel, under the chamber, is the following:
"RM 8-87
S X X"
No other markings (other than the factory Sako marks on the reciever)
I'm guessing someone with the initials of RM did the work in August of 1987. Whoever it was, was obviously a pro. I've checked what references I have looking for a custom smith with the requisite initials, but so far, no luck.
Ring any bells out there?
Rob
p.s. Sorry, no pictures at the moment. I hope to be on top of that angle sometime this summer.

RCrosby

Maybe I should rephrase the question before I top 100 hits with no reply.
Is there a professional trade organization for gunsmiths that might have a member database that could be checked for "RM"'s?
Thanks,

cody45

I suggest googling "firearms engravers" and you will undoubtedly get links to the guild members, one of which can probably steer you towards what you are seeking. As a rule they are very helpful if not too busy.

nononsense

RCrosby,

There are literally thousands of gunsmiths in America at this time and no official list that I'm aware of since there isn't a sanctioning group that oversees the licensing except for the BATFE. Since you don't have to have a degree or any special schooling to become a gunsmith or hold an FFL, there could be thousands we don't know anything about. If you extend this from the late 1800's to present day the number could be huge.

This is the link to the American Custom Gunmakers Guild. They have a list on their website:

http://www.acgg.org/

This is the link to the Firearms Engravers Guild of America:

http://www.fega.com/

Early American Gunsmiths:

http://www.claytoncramer.com/CountingGunsmithsInEarlyAmerica.html

There are other reference books with lists as well but it will take some searching on your part.

Best.

ADDED:

This is a searchable database:

http://www.shooting-hunting.com/

Best.

RCrosby

That info should keep me busy for a while. Thanks.
I'm betting that the quality of the work done is indicative of a top rank craftsman and that I may find him/her.
I'll let you know.