In 1768, Cornish McManus is becoming a master builder of rifles in a town near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His care in his work is not appreciated by his master John Wainwright, who manufactures rifles quickly.

He lives in an era in which many Americans use firearms to stay alive, as hunting is a way of life. Rifles are especially valued because they are more accurate than other guns. "Since missing can mean starving or even death," having an accurate weapon is important, and McManus's skills are valuable. When he opens his own gun shop, he becomes very busy with making and repairing guns.

While McManus is building his business, tensions between the American colonies and England are increasing due to the English raising taxes on American goods.

During this time he finds among the rough stocks of wood cut for him by a carpenter a particularly beautiful, well-balanced one that...