Totally understand, George. That's why hammerless replaced the former so quickly. But still, we who love to shoot the hammer guns must have situation awareness foremost in mind at all times. Evidently there were a lot of accidents in olden times with slipping hammers and careless attention. Dove hunting though is custom tailored for these old guns--sitting alone and not having to stumble through brush. When I'm walking you'd better believe my hammers are down! I do not believe in hunting with the action open. Too much dirt and too much stress on the action.
Good hunting to you! I'm heading out this afternoon with my 1870 Scott and 1872 Greener. Might even take along my 1867 Thomas Johnson--it needs baptizing.
