Trojan Barrel has wobble when open.

Joseph S. Burroughs · 02-23-2026, 07:24 PM

I have a 1926 16 gauge Trojan which has some wobble in the barrel when the gun is open. The gun locks up tight when closed and is on face. Is there a way to tighten this up?

DoubleOframe · 02-23-2026, 08:24 PM

You might have to micro tig or laser weld up the lug on the barrels to fit your receiver better. The forend hanger might also need attention, but if you can feel it wiggle back and forth when open that usually means the lug/frame fit is poor. Do you have dial calipers or better yet a micrometer to measure both?

Joseph S. Burroughs · 02-24-2026, 08:46 AM

Yes, I have a micrometer. I think I may need to bring it to you for the repair?

B. Dudley · 02-24-2026, 09:14 AM

Generally speaking Trojans stay tighter on the hinge then the graded guns due to the spring loaded snap-on forend. As compared to the latched forend on the graded guns (which look nicer, but are not compensating for wear).

Possibly putting a new spring and plunger in the forend may help. But… the situation is not really a problem. What matters is then the gun is closed.

DoubleOframe · 02-24-2026, 01:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Joseph S. Burroughs

Yes, I have a micrometer. I think I may need to bring it to you for the repair?

Brian’s point is spot on, but if it drives you crazy that you can feel it wiggle loosely when you open the gun it could be corrected. Being a Trojan and depending on the condition, the juice may not be worth the squeeze so to speak. Measure the lug width in a few spots and the pocket in the receiver for comparison. If you stack some paper or shim stock you will get a pretty good idea just how much material is needed to tighten it up.

Joseph S. Burroughs · 02-24-2026, 04:48 PM

Thank you for your replies.

Andy · 02-24-2026, 04:54 PM

I have a VH 16g that is loose as a goose when open but tight when closed. Birds still die and it's been like that for the 7 years I've used it. Someone looked at it at Hausmann's (Brian or Dan May???) and said "Shoot the damn thing it's over 100 years old you'll be dead before it's a problem." I think that was solid advice for me anyways.

Drew Hause · 02-24-2026, 05:48 PM

Joseph: I realize I'm talking about an inferior product

but a beer can shim has worked great on my 1906 L.C. Smith, and is easily replaceable.

I guess this guarantee was marketing hyperbole

Joseph S. Burroughs · 02-24-2026, 07:52 PM

I appreciate all responses! Thanks