Tim,
Up and down bends aren't really possible with a Darne. I have seen one successful bend where a shooter got the top of the toe out of the way, more of a twist then a bend.
If it was a simple through bolt, more would be possible. But, the bolt has wood screw threads on the exterior, and is held into the wood. That is what complicates the picture.
I did see an odd idea on a Darne gun in Europe one time-the bead was a sphericle globe, perhaps the size of a child's marble, the point being to alter the sight picture, and force a lower hold when keeping the larger bead at about 6:00 on the target. I guess it worked, but, it looked a bit funny, to me. I might feel differently about how it looked had the gun been mine, and I shot it too high, however.
If I were coaching you, I'd like to see your lead hand further out, holding barrels more than wood.
What are the dimensions of the stock on the gun? Further, what are your ideal dimensions, normally?
Best,
Ted
