doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Disassembly of side double barrel shotgun

I have a side by side by double barrel that I would like to refinish the stock. It is European walnut. The guns is a sidelock that does not have the quick escape lever that is found on Holland & Holland, Purdey, and other high grade doubles. It has one screw on the right action and two on the left. I need to disassemble the action from the buttstock. I know that the screw for the trigger guard must be removed, along with the screw under the tang and one under the bottom of the action. I realize I will be utilizing gunsmith screwdrivers. What am I concerned about is how to remove locks from the stock without damaging the woof and/or metal.

You mentioned gun smith screw drivers, I would make sure that for each screw head the screw driver fits perfectly in the slot as to width and length.

Removing the lock, use the screw from the left side and screw it into the right side and lift it off. If it is too snug try gently tapping the head of the screw. If still too hard from oil solidifying under the lock/s, well just hope that does not happen because removing the stuck lock could tear out some of the thin wood. It might have to be lightly heated with a soldering iron.

The screw under the top tang pulls the trigger plate assembly up into the receiver, it is always good to measure with a dial Vernier caliper to get the right dimension in going back. This screw has a tapered head to the angle of the top tang, remember this when going back. It will take one full turn to orientate the right way, that is why a measurement helps.

If a two screw trigger guard remember which screw goes where as to later for orientation.

Excellent explanation David but I'd like to add one point:
When dealing with non - hand detachable sidelocks I've found the following technique to be helpful. Back the screw out a few turns on the left side and then using a rubber mallet tap on the head of the screw. This will usually loosen the right lock and make removal easier.
Jim

Jim, very good I forgot about that one.

Perhaps this will be helpful:

http://www.hunting-heritage.com/blog/index.php/2016/05/16/how-to-disassemble-a-side-by-side/

Our friends from steniron.com did a great job!

Cheers,
Wolfgang

You lads forgot to tell this gent one fact- always make sure the hammers (tumblers) are fully cocked before removing the sidelock plates. And BF&I is NOT a gunsmith's tool either--

I appreciate your responses. It has made me rethink wanting to engage in this project. I will leave it to the professionals, which to is Griffin & Howe. I know I will pay, but I won't have to worry about things getting screwed up.

Wise move Colin- G&H are top hole folks. They know guns..

Very very wise