Today we talk with Jim Kibler of Kiblers Longrifles about his start in muzzleloading, how he's changed over the years, and what Kiblers Longrifles looks like in 50 years. This is a pretty casual conversation with Jim, but I do ask him questions from the community and some questions I've been pondering.

Watch the video tour of Kibler's shop - https://youtu.be/prVS96PG8iQ Video goes live July 12, 2026

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Learn more about this book at https://indianagunmakers.com/about-the-book/

The Cooley Collection of Vietor creations will be on display at the 2026 NMLRA Spring National Shoot during these days and times at the NMLRA Education Center in Friendship, Indiana:

June 13, 2026, Saturday 9-4

June 14, 2026, Sunday 10-4

June 15, 2026, Monday 10-2

June 16, 2026 Tuesday 10-2

About the Book:

Jeff Jaeger brings William H. Vietor’s world back to life through in-depth interviews, Vietor’s own poetry, and an extraordinary collection of photographs.

William and his son, Francis, were talented amateur photographers who preserved a rare and intimate record of their family’s life. Building on that legacy, Jaeger adds hundreds of detailed color photographs of Vietor’s rifles, pistols, violins, powder horns, and tools—capturing both craftsmanship and character.

A unique feature of this book is its interactive component: a QR code links to audio recordings of Vietor’s 1933 violin being played, along with readings of his poetry by his granddaughter and great-great-grandchildren.

About Jeff:

Jeff Jaeger is a longtime student, collector, and author of the American muzzle-loading longrifle, with a particular focus on those made in his home state of Indiana. With more than thirty years of collecting experience, he is known for his research and dedication to preserving Indiana’s gunmaking history.

Books by Jeff Jaeger:

• John Small of Vincennes, Gunsmith on the Western Frontier (2010)
• Indiana Gunmakers and Their Muzzle-Loading Longrifles, 1778–1900 (2021)
• William H. Vietor, Indiana Gunsmith and American Renaissance Man(2026)

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Follow Andrew's Unit:

https://www.facebook.com/LincolnCountyMilitia

https://www.instagram.com/lincoln_countyregt?igsh=N2gybGd2eWlpMGY2

Learn more about this and many other things related to muzzleloading at ILoveMuzzleloading.com

Don't miss the Kalamazoo Living History Show, March 21-22, 2026. Learn more at KalamazooShow.com

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