The metal patchbox did not appear to have become a feature on American longrifles until the 1770's. Before that time, wooden boxes were the standard.
Wooden patchbox
May 18, 2021 — For a similar example with a sliding wooden patchbox and similar carving by J.P. Beck; see number 98 on page 246 of "Thoughts on the .... May 16, 2021 — this video includes the sliding wood patch box and release, fitting and assembling the lock, drilling and tapping the lock plate. with our patchbox ... 3925e8d270
wooden patchbox, wooden patchbox lid