Richard: I was going to post a few pictures of my Dougall with the Lockfast action, but I cannot figure out how to post a picture. The directions don't help much... I managed to get two images uploaded, and I can see them "stored" on my private message page/file. However, how to get them out of there - I have no clue and can't waste any more time trying...
Regardless, Dougall patented his own action, called the "Lockfast." The hinge pin of the shotgun was eccentric in cross section, for it acted as a cam. A lever was affixed to the hinge pin, and extended back toward the standing face of the action (along the right side). To open the gun, one lowered this lever, which caused the hinge pin to rotate counter clockwise (as viewed from the right side of the gun). This made the barrel assembly more away from the standing breech approx. 1/8". Then, the barrrels were able to be lowered in the usual manner. So, rotating the lever pulled the locking lug (under the barrels) from beneath the locking surface under the standing breech, and it also allowed the breech end of the barrels to each clear a raised circular "boss" that protruded from the stading breech, behind each barrel. I believe the action was patented in 1866. (My gun is ca. 1875, in 16 gauge). Mine is cut high in the stock too, and has cylinder bores. Heel & toe clips, nose-less hammers, back action Stanton locks & nice engraving, including the Prince of Wales plumed crown. Very light, but not one that I can shoot all that well...
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