Featured in December for its complex sculpted trigger guard, this firearm has several dragons adorning its sides. Lee Griffiths, an engraver who also teaches at the GRS Training Center in Emporia, Kansas, created most of this fierce little dragon using multi-colored metal inlays.

Notice on the close up that the gold body has been engraved to make a texture of scales, contrasting nicely with the smooth wings, chest, and snout. Lee even incorporated stone setting into this firearm by adding a small stone for the eye. Around the dragon Lee has engraved large, open scrolls and leaves. The background texture has been created using a small round punch. These elements are simpler in execution, but look just right with the ornate inlays.

If you would like to learn how to engrave like this, Lee Griffiths can help you learn! He is teaching an Intermediate Engraving (Loupe Project) course and a Layout & Design course. For more information, call 1-800-835-3519 or visit www.grstrainingcenter.com to learn more.

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.