Pap...I use square carbide for almost all of my cutting. HHS flats made from #1 knife gravers for gold line cavities...and scrapers for sculpting. Gravers have 57 degree faces and about 10 or so degrees lift with very small heel.
Sir John, yes, much time and even more concentration. Especially since the mirrored images are right up against each other.
Kevin, no secret here. Since I don't use a 'scope it is simply clamped in the vise, as show in this photo. I use a #10 Optivisor.
Here is some of the barrel engraving. It is a large and heavy barrel making it difficult to swing around and work on. Glad to have that part done! But more to do.
It looks just great Dan and no, you have not crossed any line. I just mean be careful to not overdo it in an attempt to add more. I don't mean leave it alone if you think of more you want to do but it sure looks great as is.
Many years ago I had the pleasure of firing a Rem No. 4 in 32 rim fire. As the cartridges were somewhat rare, I only got to fire it once...but was fun!