Firearm engravings can range from large, simple scrolls to ornate inlays and overlays, fancy scrollwork, and intricate scenes. An exquisite example of a complex firearm engraving is this “Dragon Gun” by Lee Griffiths.

The trigger guard, shown here, displays one of the many Chinese dragons that adds to a wonderfully unusual theme. Lee started this dragon with a pen drawing and began the sculpting by using a 90 degree graver, which had to be sharpened often. To create the final sculpted form, Lee used flats for rough shaping, drill bits and small burs for piercing, and files and punches to model and texture the metal.

“This is not for the faint of heart or a low budget,” Lee commented. “Sculpting is one of the most time-consuming techniques, but offers an effect not accomplished any other way.” To find out more about the techniques used on this piece, look for future Featured Photos on this Perazzi Over-and-Under shotgun.

Tools used: GraverMach. Magnum Handpiece. Various sizes of flat gravers. A square graver. Small punches. 850 Rotary using small burs. Files. Graver angles used a 20 degree heel and 55 face.