Jack;
Other than my SxS's I love shooting my M12's and you were spot on with that young man and his forward hand. Those old M12's just about pump themselves although you need a load with some recoil to accomplish that. I shoot my 3/4oz. loads in mine and there is no recoil to assist that forward hand so I have to force myself to remember to push the forend forward to unlock the bolt. Thanks for taking the time to assist that young whippersnapper in learning how to shoot (and whoop his father-in-law)