If ebony is hard to find from suppliers, you can usually pick up some of those grotesque African carved busts etc. at flea markets or "junque" shops. There is often a good chunk of wood left in the heads. Every time I see those things I lament over the fine, rare and slow-growing wood that is wasted in making them.

I'm sure you can learn to chequer too! ;-)

If you want a peep sight, I would consider mounting one on the cocking piece.

The rifles look very nice indeed. A silk purse from a pig's ear.