Chuck H.: BT vs Splinter pics

[Dean Romig]

From my observations I am of the opinion that the assembled forend iron and latch from either type of forend are the same depth. Anyone with a gun that has both a splinter forend and beavertail or "trap" forend should be able to measure one against the other. I know John Dunkle's Grandfather's wonderful AAHE Double Trap has one of each style of forend... maybe John would be good enough (if he's currently at home) to take some quick measurements.

[Joe Bernfeld]

Chuck, as I said (yes, Dean, I said it before ), it doesn't seem possible to measure the thickness of the forend metal accurately without removing the wood (which I prefer not to do). As Dean said, I'm pretty sure they are the same thickness because both the beavertail and splinter will go on the same barrels, and both are inlet flush with the bottom of the wood. When I get home on Thursday (out of town now), I'll see if I can measure them somehow, but I'm almost positive they are the same. I can send a picture from the side, but I don't think it will answer your question (the wood hides all the metal from a side view).
Joe

[Dean Romig]

Originally Posted by Joe Bernfeld

Chuck, as I said (yes, Dean, I said it before ), it doesn't seem possible to measure the thickness of the forend metal accurately without removing the wood (which I prefer not to do).

Actually Joe, I can think of a couple of ways to measure the depth or thickness of both types of forend on the same gun. The first way is probably the simplest. Begin with a flat, stable, unobstructed work surface. Lay the inverted gun on the work surface (top rib down) with the bead just off the edge of the surface. With one type of forend or the other firmly in place on the barrels measure the distance from the work surface to the highest point of the latch and record it. Now measure from the work surface to the lowest point of the latch in order to establish an angle if such angle exists. Record this number. Now, replace the forend with the other type of forend and repeat the process. I suggest the measurements should be the same.