[Lloyd McKissick]

Thank you Mr. Romig, appreciate that input.

"Composite" instead of Damascus for a "Twist" description eh? Ok, I also have an early Best Laminated Steel LC Smith gun, is that considered a "composite" variety as well?

Also, in earlier discussions here I see the subject of hunting with the hammers cocked but with the gun being open. I have tried that and found it to be somewhat awkward and even slow. It may be a blasphemous admission here, but if I'm alone (and on mostly clear and level ground), my tubes are "hot" (i.e., gun closed, at port arms, hammers cocked). Hunting ruffed grouse with a hammergun almost demands this approach.

Mind you, this is only when things are feeling "birdy". If I'm hunting with a partner, my hammers are down until either a point or a flush are detected (or I've reverted to using a hammerless weapon).

Edit to add: as my footing inevitably becomes less-sure as I age, then I'll further revise this practice (or abandon it altogether).