The first of three volumes listing 456 Illinois gunsmiths, this first book covers names A-F, and has 364 illustrations of guns, gunsmiths, and shooters, including bench rest and Schuetzen target rifles, 40 and 80 rod guns. Some interesting shotguns and shotgunners are shown. Chapters cover the history, evolution and distinct styles of the Illinois makers. Hardbound, 8-1/2 x 11" format, with 200 pages.

The Table of Contents includes the following:

• Foreword
• Preface
• Acknowledgments
• Chapter I History and Evolution of Gunmaking in Illinois
• Chapter II Types and Styles
• Chapter III Target Shooting Among the Pioneers
• Chapter IV Bench-Rest Target Shooting, "Forty and Eighty Rod Guns"
• Chapter V The Schuetzen Target Rifle, its Use and its Makers
• Chapter VI Shotguns and Shotgunning
• Chapter VII Illinois Gunsmiths and Guns
• Last Names Beginning with Letter A
• Last Names Beginning with Letter B
• Last Names Beginning with Letter C
• Last Names Beginning with Letter D
• Last Names Beginning with Letter E
• Last Names Beginning with Letter F
• Illinois County Evolution
• Appendix
• Bibliography
• Index of Names

ISBN: 0-87387-100-6