Thanks everyone. Willow is now 11 and is content to lounge most of the day. Although still has the energy for her evening walk. Ideally I’d like to find an “in the white” reproduction but not sure if I want to spend that much. Also have been looking at Upland Gun Company, they offer it for a reasonable price.

Kirk, Also keep in mind the option to take something like a DHE reproduction, wipe out the bottom engraving and then have your dog portrait done. It is a lower cost option vs. doing a whole gun on a custom basis.

I like that idea, hadn’t thought of that. Thanks.

It gives you a chance for a high relief subject.

Brian

Any idea as to a ballpark cost for an upgraded trigger plate like that with an animal motif but not an extravagant one? (Assuming you had an existing starting plate). I have a gun I would like to upgrade slightly but have not worked with engravers before.

Another idea on a Fox upgrade.

Here's a link to a Parker Reproduction A-1 Special engraved by William Gamradt that showcases the engraving style I really like. Take special notice of how the floral/vine/leaf engraving spills over and intertwines with the border engraving -- this all adds depth and style to the overall effect of the engraver's art.

If I were going to do another custom project it would be a toss-up between the engraving of the below linked Gamradt gun and/or the Winston Churchill custom-engraved 28ga. Parker. Both guns have the style and depth I personally find most attractive.

http://www.gamradtgallery.com/detpag...recidparam=123

That’s beautiful.

First picture really didn't do this engraving justice. Tap on the picture for best resolution.
Dog spirits in the sky.

Not a dog, but rather a Red Fox in action done in the bulino style by Bob Strosin on a custom 20ga. A.H. Fox he engraved for a project of mine several years ago. An image of a dog could easily have been substituted instead of the fox.

Custom projects are very personal in nature. One can choose static, action or a combination of chosen images for your gun...the sky's the limit.