If there is no bottom rib it may be missing, you should carefully examine for any indications of a rib solder or markings indicating one had been there.

My experience with muzzle loader double barrels (2) had bottom ribs

It is possible it was made without a bottom rib, but if so there should be at minim significant reinforcements at the mid point and muzzles on barrels that long.

My gut is something is amiss

Last edited by old colonel; 01/29/17 09:30 PM.
Michael Dittamo
Topeka, KS