What is the typical cast on a R/H side by side English boxlock (Original)?

[Dan856]

As the title says lads, can anyone confirm?

Thanks in advance,

Dan

 

[Tim.243]

As the title says lads, can anyone confirm?

Thanks in advance,

Dan

Do you shoot one?

TBH it is such a open question as it depends on the person and how much they need...

Do you shoot a rh or lh bow?

 

[User00025]

My old Reilly sidelock would appear to have a cast of 1" to the right. It is No2 of a pair. I can only assume the original owner was measured for this. However it suits my eyes fine.

 

[Heym SR20]

About 1/4 to 1/2”, but with a side by side it very much depends on the original purchaser. Most English boxlocks were made in Birmingham and then sold to the trade, partly or fully finished.

You would go along to your local gunshop “Bodget and Bang”. They would have guns in various states of finish and they would then finish up a gun for you - ie cut stock to length and cast to your dimensions. And deliver to you in a couple of weeks.

With most side by sides it is or was quite easy to adjust cast and drop by heating the hand and then bending it across and letting it cool. I say “was” as new wood is much easier to bend, than old wood. And with old stocks you do run the risk of hairline cracks etc - which whilst wouldn’t let go in normal use - could cause issues when trying to bend.

 

[lochty]

My h & h, made in 1886, is 3/8"

 

[Dan856]

About 1/4 to 1/2”, but with a side by side it very much depends on the original purchaser. Most English boxlocks were made in Birmingham and then sold to the trade, partly or fully finished.

You would go along to your local gunshop “Bodget and Bang”. They would have guns in various states of finish and they would then finish up a gun for you - ie cut stock to length and cast to your dimensions. And deliver to you in a couple of weeks.

With most side by sides it is or was quite easy to adjust cast and drop by heating the hand and then bending it across and letting it cool. I say “was” as new wood is much easier to bend, than old wood. And with old stocks you do run the risk of hairline cracks etc - which whilst wouldn’t let go in normal use - could cause issues when trying to bend.

Thanks, good info!

 

[GWP]

Most of the quality shot guns where made to measure so came in different configurations but look at most aya and other mass produced guns come in at 3/8ths